Cops to step up COVID patrols

Persons venturing into the public space this weekend are being warned that they risk being prosecuted if they breach orders made under the Disaster Risk Management Act for the containment of COVID-19.

"Persons should still wear their masks, especially when they are going into gatherings. Persons may be tempted to host parties, but before those parties may be held, they still need the appropriate authorisation from the local authorities and from the police. These are the things the police would be looking out for," said Senior Superintendent of Police, Stephanie Lindsay. "Once you break the law, you are likely to be prosecuted. Whatever you do, do it within the confines of the law."

Among other things, the Disaster Risk Management Act requires that persons wear masks that cover their mouths and noses. Persons are also required to observe physical distancing, which under the law means being six feet apart from each other. Gatherings should not exceed 20 persons, and entertainment events should have no more than 280 persons in a venue, subject to the physical distancing rules.

Jamaica, as of Thursday, had 864 confirmed COVID cases. Health Minister Dr Christopher Tufton encourages Jamaicans to stay at home this weekend, if possible and to "resist the temptation to breach the orders".