In an operation to oversee the compliance of COVID-19 prevention measures in Nyagatare district, Police and local leaders caught 27 people in a bar, in Katabagemo sector, Rugoma cell, drinking.
This was contrary to the government directives, which requires all bars to be closed in this period of the pandemic.
According to Chief Inspector of Police (CIP) Hamdun Twizeyimana, the Police spokesperson for the Eastern region, the violators were also congested with no social distancing while others were drinking illicit brew known in the area as ‘Cungumuntu.’
“It was around 7pm when a resident called the police reporting the violations and directed them to the specific bar where people were gathered drinking alcohol,” CIP Twizeyimana said.
He added: “When Police officers arrived at the bar, they found a full house where none of the prevention measures were followed, and 27 people were arrested.”
Bars, including those operating in hotels and restaurants are closed as per the directive. However, restaurants including those in hotels and other hospitality establishments can serve alcoholic drinks to only seated clients who order food.
“The illicit brew was disposed of, while the 27 violators were penalised accordingly, but they will also be educated on COVID-19 and prevention measures,” the spokesperson said.
He warned against undermining the COVID-19 prevention and safety measures and urged residents to always report such prohibited risky practices, which can be the cause of the virus spread in their communities.
He further cautioned against distilling, selling and consuming illicit brew. “A person, who takes these psychotropic substances becomes weak and can barely perform any task. It also influences people to behave violently like we have witnessed in many other cases and this is a threat to security of the residents, as it leads to family conflicts,” CIP Twizeyimana added.
The spread of the Coronavirus can be prevented by washing hands thoroughly and several times with soap and water or hand sanitizer. Wearing a mask and keeping distance between oneself and others, avoiding unnecessary movements, avoiding any hand or body contact with another person, are also among the recommended prevention pratices. (End)