Amanzimtoti SAPS tackles Covid-19 lockdown

Members of Amanzimtoti SAPS have taken a proactive approach in dealing with the Covid-19 lockdown. Numerous efforts to containing the spread within the station have been implemented.

Communications officer of Amanzimtoti SAPS, Captain Charlene van Der Spuy said, “We have been equipped with hand sanitisers, masks and gloves. All personnel have been instructed to adhere to social distancing even when it is hard to maintain as front line personnel.”

According to van Der Spuy lockdown compliance within the community is not at a desirable stage.

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“We are under the impression that parts of the community believe that it is still business as usual and refuse to adhere to the rules and regulations of the lockdown. It is also notable that those who leave the house to obtain goods and services do not understand what is considered essential and what is not. It is the public’s responsibility to inform themselves on the current situation via the Government Gazette and other reputable news sources. Unfortunately, people fail to do so and the spread of fake news continues. This, in turn, has made it increasingly difficult for the members of SAPS to enforce the lockdown as we cannot protect ourselves and the public whilst dealing with individuals that believe they are allowed to continue with their normal routines and do as they please despite the national emergency,” she said.

She further added that many taxi drivers are not complying with the 50 per cent capacity rule.

“This means that taxis still continue to carry more than seven passengers per taxi at a time. This places the drivers, passengers, their families and the public at an increased risk. It is also to be noted that private vehicles (regardless of size) may only carry a single driver and one passenger if necessary. The non-compliance of these individuals is only fueling the development and spread of this pandemic,” she concluded.

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The Covid-19 hotline is 080-0029-999. To report non-compliance in Amanzimtoti and surrounding areas, call 031-325-5784.

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