Two in eMalahleni arrested for lying about going to funeral

With Operation Lockdown halfway through the 21 days lockdown period Witbank- and Vosman police stations have arrested a total of 335 suspects for contravening the COVID 19 disaster management act regulations.

Most residents saw themselves on the other side of the law because they failed to stay at home.

Others were arrested still operating their businesses after the hours prescribed in the regulations and some for ignoring the prescribed times in which commuters can be transported.

The selling of liquor is strictly prohibited, but there are people who were caught selling liquor.

Illegal movement between provinces and interfering with a police officer or a member of the national defence force or peace officer in executing their duties under the disaster management act landed some in hot water too.

On April 8 two people were arrested for fraud after they presented a fraudulent death certificate to obtain a permit to travel to a funeral.

The station commander of Witbank Police station Brigadier Lindane Ndlovu emphasized that the police only issue permits to attend funeral services within the province or at other provinces.

The funeral permit can be obtained from Witbank or Vosman Police station or a magistrate at the Witbank Magistrate Court.

Applicants for a funeral permit should attach a death certificate or an affidavit in this regard.

Brigadier Ndlovu further said that the police station can not approve any other movement permits by the public apart from essential services which are promulgated in the act.

Essential workers should carry a permit to perform essential services form 11 B (3) with them when they are travelling.

Brigadier Ndlovu concluded that he would like to thank the majority of the community for adhering to the lock down regulations and asked for their continued co-operation for the rest of the lock down period.