Authorities Working To "Ensure Improved Security At Quarantine Centres" As 13 More Escape

The Zimbabwe Republic Police has said that it is working with relevant stakeholders to enhance security at quarantine centres in the country as 13 more people are reported to have escaped since Thursday.

National police spokesperson Assistant Commissioner Paul Nyathi confirmed the development on Friday adding that some of the escapees later surrendered themselves to authorities. He added:

We are concerned with people who are escaping from quarantine centres but we are investigating these cases. This morning five people escaped from Mushagashe Training Centre in Masvingo while eight escaped from Esikhoveni Training Centre in Matabeleland South last night. The previous day four people escaped from the same institution.

This brings the number of people who have so far escaped from quarantine centres to 222 and we have made 29 arrests. The police and other stakeholders have been working together to ensure security is improved in these quarantine centres such as fencing, walls and proper lighting. This is an issue of paramount importance as it is putting the members of the public at risk.

There are reports suggesting that some escape because of poor living standards and potential exposure to the virus in the centres.

More: Chronicle