Government Deploys Police To Enforce Covid-19 Restrictions

The government will deploy police officers to public spaces to enforce health measures designed to limit the spread of the coronavirus, health minister Chitalu Chilufya has announced.

Dr Chilufya informed the public of the move during yesterday’s coronavirus daily briefing. He said the decision had come from President Lungu himself.

The decision comes after a further six coronavirus deaths were confirmed on Monday. This brings the total number of deaths in Zambia up to 241 from 8,210 cases.

Dr Chilufya added that the ministry of local government would also be beefing up its response to the pandemic by cracking down on those who do not follow public health directives in markets, trading places and bus stops.

Bars and nightclubs, which have continued to operate illegally in parts of Lusaka, will also be subject to tougher scrutiny.

The health minister advised that society could only return to normality if Covid-19 preventative measures were adhered to.