Thirty-eight were arrested fined in the past two days for contravening regulation 11 of the state of emergency.

Namibia is under a state of emergency in the wake of the COVID-19 that has since affected 11 people.

Among those arrested were four bartenders.

Twenty-one and two bartenders were arrested in the Zambezi Region, while in Omusati at Oshikushashipya village, the police set free about 350 people who were found gathered allegedly for prayer at a certain residence.

According to a report released Sunday, the police educated the people on the current danger of COVID-19 before asking them to disperse.

One person was fined N$2000 in //Karas, while two others were also fined N$2000 each in Kunene for Contravening regulation 11 of State of Emergency.

In Erongo Region, one person paid a N$4 000 fine for operating without a liquor licence. In the Khomas Region, another person was fined for Contravening the State of Emergency.

Four others were arrested in Ohangwena; one in Otjozondjupa Region; and another one in Oshana region.

In spite of the arrests, the police said their operations were proceeding smoothly; great cooperation exists between the law enforcers and the public both within towns and at the traffic checkpoints.

“The public gatherings: communities are responding relatively well except on less than 10 people
gatherings especially during funerals,” the police said.

They, however, admitted that social distancing of one meter is still a challenge, particularly at some retail shops.

Passengers restrictions, the police added, is also relatively well in exception of some taxis.

“The public is encouraged not to board taxis that exceeds three passengers. Taxi education needs to be embarked on the danger of the virus and how it spreads.

“Closure of liquor outlets and some business remains a challenge perhaps because of the then
various misleading and circulating information.

“With the Gazette of the Regulations and the education thereof, it is our belief that the situation will definitely change and as law enforcers, we will operate smoothly.”