HARARE – Home Affairs and Cultural Heritage Minister Kazembe Kazembe has issued a warning to all businesses that flouting the set Covid-19 regulations and illegally operating outside the parameters set by the government.
Kazembe was addressing the press on Thursday where he expressed concern over the disregard of lockdown orders by some entities particularly restaurants, bars and night clubs among others.
Also urging public figures to lead by example.
“My Ministry is concerned with bars, night clubs, restaurants, and other business entities who are operating yet according to Statutory Instrument 10 of 2021, these are banned. I have directed the Commissioner-General of Police to ensure that the law takes its course on any individual, syndicate or business entity contravening COVID-19 regulations. There is no need for anyone to grandstand. In the same vein, I plead with public figures/ musicians and others to lead by example in fighting this pandemic.
“I am equally disturbed by some shopping centres in some areas in the country which are now known for wild parties, beer-drinking binges and all sorts of illegalities. This should stop forthwith,” he said.
He said police will intensify their patrol across the country and those businesses found violating the regulations risk losing their operating licenses.
“Police officers will move around all suburbs, shopping centres and even check houses to account for transgressions against covid regulations and other criminal activities. I urge the public to report to any nearest Police Station, individuals or groups holding parties or musical events or any other gatherings not sanctioned under COVID-19 regulations. Organisers of such events will face the wrath of the law and risk losing their licences.
“The Ministry has also noted with concern, that despite funerals being allowed a maximum of 30 people, this limit is being disregarded by many. Citizens are urged to observe this regulation. Any violation of this requirement will meet the full wrath of the law, added Kazembe.
Minister Kazembe further said he was disturbed by the reports of police officers who are reportedly smashing commuter omnibus windscreens, adding that the police boss Godwin Matanga has vowed to send the message to all the officers.
“My Ministry does not condone the smashing of vehicle windscreens or windows by police officers. The Commissioner-General of Police has assured me that this message will be cascaded to all Police Commanders for the conscientisation of their members.”
He also said Matanga had assured him that stern action will be taken against the ‘errant officers’ who smashed a windscreen and put a minor’s life in danger while dispersing people along second street on Monday.