Rwanda National Police (RNP) warns the general public against social gatherings and parties, which are prohibited in this period, as they constitute a violation of government directives meant to prevent further spread of COVID-19.
The caution follows a party held on August 15, at ‘The Retreat Hotel’ in Kiyovu. About 35 people gathered at the hotel for the party dubbed “Les Samedis Sympas,” which was organised by one Juan Nsabiye, a fashion designer, in collaboration with The Retreat Hotel.
The party included music by DJs; Toxxyk and K’Ru.
RNP spokesperson, Commissioner of Police (CP) John Bosco Kabera said that the event was a “total violation of COVID-19 prevention measures.”
CP Kabera said: “Not only that parties or social gatherings are prohibited in this period, Les Samedis Sympas was a total violation of COVID-19 preventive measures since no one was wearing a facemask and they did not practise social distancing.”
“Les Samedis Sympas, like similar other parties lately organised by celebrities and attended by young people especially personalities and social media influencers, who should otherwise promote positive behaviors towards collective efforts to fight the pandemic; instead they knowingly violate the directives and enjoy publishing their violation photos on their social media platforms, which undermines awareness efforts on safety practices, promotes negative actions and further undermines public confidence in adhering to recommended measures against COVID-19,” CP Kabera added.
The spokesperson said that some of those, who were involved in the violation have been identified, summoned and taken to isolation center to be quarantined for at least seven days in line with Rwanda Biomedical Center (RBC) guidelines, where they will be tested for Covid-19.
So far, 21 out of the 35 people, who attended the party have been identified and placed under isolation for close follow up.
Others are still being traced
The tests, however, will be carried out at the violators’ own expenses, same as the quarantine costs.
CP Kabera also reminded owners of hospitality facilities to operate within the limits of the directives and to promote positive behaviours rather than engaging in business activities that might lead to further spread of the pandemic. (End)