01 Sep 2020

Serowe Police have expressed concern about residents, who though fully understanding the COVID-19 protocols, choose not to adhere to them.

Speaking to BOPA on Monday, N0.2 District Officer Commanding, Senior Superintendent Paul Oketsang said they had arrested and charged 1 792 residents of Serowe, Palapye and surrounding villages for not adhering to the protocols, since April.

 He also expressed concern about people who were still brewing traditional beer, adding that they had also arrested 42 people for illegally selling tobacco, while 47 were caught selling liquor and 266 for brewing.

He said 64 were charged for drinking alcohol in prohibited areas, 38 for not providing sanitisers in their businesses and 529 unlawfully strolling in the streets, while 530 were charged for not wearing  masks in public areas. 

Supt. Oketsang further stated that 90 public transport operators were charged for not obeying protocols, 119 charged for gathering in excess of 50 and 34 for not keeping social distancing.  

He said it was the responsibility of every Motswana to obey the COVID-19 regulations, which include staying home to avoid any unnecessary movements that may lead to the spread of the virus.

Speaking in an interview, some Serowe residents expressed worry about those  who ignore calls from health officials, saying such people were the reason why Greater Gaborone went on lockdown.

They urged residents to comply with the health protocols, as the pandemic was threatening humanity.

Mr Themba Morakaladi advised other residents to minimise risk by avoiding unnecessary trips.

Mr Morakaladi said, although he acknowledged the importance of lockdown, it negatively affected the lives of pastoral farmers. Ends