Stern warning for violators

TDT | Manama

Immediate and decisive action will be taken against those who violate provisions of the Public Health Law and any preventative measures aimed at protecting the society. This was stressed yesterday by the Public Prosecution during a coordination meeting with Health Ministry officials, in the presence of Acting Senior Advocate General Chancellor Dr. Ahmed Al Hammadi.

The meeting took place as part of the tireless efforts to curb the coronavirus (COVID-19) outbreak. The meeting cast light on mapping out a specific mechanism for a constructive comprehensive system between the Public Prosecution and the Health Ministry in the fight against COVID-19. Commitment to all procedures imposed to isolate infected people or suspicious cases were also stressed.

Other procedures like closing public outlets and reducing gatherings were reviewed. The meeting also shed light on legal requirements that have to be finalised regarding any violations of the measures taken to curb the COVID-19 outbreak. Bahrain has announced a number of strict measures for the public to prevent the further spread of the coronavirus.

Among them are barring public gatherings of more than five people at places including, but are not limited to, markets, public parks and public beaches. Punishments for individuals who refuse to follow these initiatives could face imprisonment for a period of no less than three months and a fine of no less than BD1,000 and not exceeding BD10,000, or one of these two penalties.

Similar penalties are also in place for those who violate the 14-day self-quarantine rule, as well as for any establishments that go against recently announced measures to help combat the spread of the coronavirus, among other violators.