Serious concerns raised as people continue to disregard the curfew times

Serious concerns are being raised as people continue to disregard the curfew times and the physical distancing requirements by the government.

Since the national curfew began on Monday more than 200 people have been arrested for breaching the curfew hours.

Fijivillage has also seen people standing close to each other while queuing up to withdraw money from ATM’s and also sitting in close proximity to each other on buses.

On Monday night, 68 people were arrested, Tuesday night saw the arrest of 49 people, on Wednesday night 48 people were arrested and last night 60 people including two police officers were arrested.

The two police officers based at the Labasa Police Station who breached the 10 pm to 5 am curfew were allegedly drunk and driving around in a private vehicle.

Police Commissioner Sitiveni Qiliho says the officers will also face internal disciplinary measures.

Qiliho has also issued a directive that any officer who is found breaching the measures and restrictions announced by the Prime Minister will be removed from the institution.

He says this will include anyone responsible for social gatherings at Police premises including barracks.

Qiliho says at a time where they are calling for support towards COVID-19, he will not allow Police officers to take advantage of their affiliation to the Fiji Police Force where they think they can abuse their powers during the current situation.

Qiliho is urging people to take all necessary precautionary measures even when Police officers are not around.

He says this is where common sense has to prevail and adequate awareness has been done on what we must all do as individuals to assist all efforts in combatting COVID-19.

The Police Commissioner says officers continue to do their part in dispersing crowds and also ensuring members of the public adhere to the physical distancing measures but the onus is on every individual to do their part as well.

Meanwhile, the national curfew will start at 8 pm and end at 5 am daily from tonight.