Follow the rules or face the consequences

TDT | Manama

Interior Minister Shaikh Rashid bin Abdullah Al Khalifa announced last night the punishments of up to three years’ imprisonment and up to a BD5,000 fine for anyone violating directives banning public gatherings of more than five people. The decision stipulated the prohibition of gathering on roads, squares, beaches, parks and other public places for more than five people.

Anyone who defies this shall be reprimanded and given a jail term for a period not exceeding three years plus a fine not exceeding BD5,000, or either one of the two penalties. The Minister called on all citizens and residents to adhere to the measures related to the ban of gatherings in order to prevent the spread of the coronavirus (COVID-19) and preserve public safety in the Kingdom. Meanwhile, Capital Governor Shaikh Hesham bin Abdulrahman Al Khalifa also urged compliance with the nation-wide precautionary measures to combat COVID-19.

He highlighted particularly the ban on gatherings exceeding five people in public places and urged the public to avoid going out unless necessary – whether to report to work, go to the hospital, buy medicine, or buy other essential commodities. He underlined the need to avoid sparking panic and stressed the importance of abiding with social distancing at shopping markets and other facilities providing public services. He stressed that all citizens and residents show awareness and comply with the mandatory instructions in support of all efforts to combat COVID-19.