09 Apr 2020

Ngamiland District Commissioner, Mr Keolopile Leipego has underscored the need for all to remain united and deal with the threat posed by COVID-19 through reducing movement and staying home.

He stated in an interview that his office issued over 600 travel permits on daily basis, noting that the number was worrisome.

The 600 permits issued, he said, were from his office only and that other permits were issued at other offices such as dikgotla, deputy district commissioners’ offices and Department of Agriculture among others.

Mr Leipego said his office was overwhelmed as it experienced an influx of residents, noting that some advanced unconvincing reasons such as to check on their partners or transport them to work due to limited public transport.

He emphasised that permits would be issued to people with pressing issues.  

On the issue of lack of transport, he stated that the Department of Road Transport and Safety (DRTS) had issued permits for minibuses to assist residents travelling long distances.

Since the commencement of the extreme social distancing period, he stated that 1415 people were spotted roaming the streets and 397 had no permits. Out of the 397, he said seven were charged for not cooperating with law enforcement officers. 

He also expressed a concern about some people who continued to sell alcohol illegally with four shebeen owners already charged for selling traditional brew. Ends