04 Apr 2020

A total of 46 people in Maun have been charged for failure to comply with state of emergency and extreme social distancing regulations.

Senior Superintendent Peter Gochela said in an interview that majority of those charged were motorists who were not cooperative at roadblocks.

Since beginning of the extreme social distancing period on April 3, police embarked on operation to ensure compliance. He stated that people who violated the regulations would be charged fees not exceeding P5000 or six months iin jail.

He appreciated that some listened to police advice and returned to their homes while some were allowed to collect COVID 19 travel permits.

Senior Superintendent Gochela also noted that they experienced another challenge when members of the community flocked to district commissioner's to apply for  permits.

He acknowledged that besides these incidents, most residents of Maun took the message of extreme social distancing seriously.

“I can say generally there is compliance as 90 per cent stayed home except those providing essential services. Today movement of both people and motorists had been reduced and the village is so quiet,” he added. 

Senior Superintendent Gochela noted that they would keep on monitoring the situation to ensure 100 per cent compliance.

Meanwhile, some elders welcomed decision to impose extreme social distancing. They stated that it seemed people had now realised the importance of COVID-19 prevention measures.

One of the elders, Mr Chitani Mlaize of Thito ward in Maun explained that the extreme social distancing was a good decision.

He said people should understand that government cared about their health and welfare, hence wishing people could stay home.

Ms Lebonang Seaswetseng of Kgosing ward echoed sentiments that President Dr Mokgweetsi Masisi decision to declare a state of public emergency was a welcome development.

She said it was worrisome as children and some elders were roaming the streets and failing to maintain social distancing distance of 1-2 metres.

Ms Seaswetseng appreciated that there was reduction in movement and encouraged fellow residents to adhere to precautionary measures.Ends