The Zimbabwe Republic Police (ZRP) has expressed grave concern over the new trend of bars and restaurants that are now selling beer to patrons totally disregarding COVID-19 regulations.
This comes as health experts are warning authorities of a potential third wave of the COVID-19 pandemic, with winter fast approaching.
In a statement on Friday, national police spokesperson Assistant Commissioner Paul Nyathi warned those businesses operating in violation of COVID-19 regulations that the long arm of the law will catch up with them. Said Asst Comm Nyathi:
The Zimbabwe Republic Police has noted with concern the proliferation of bars, beer-halls, and restaurants that are openly defying the Governments’ COVID-19 regulations by operating with clients drinking beer whilst closed inside.
Some are even drinking whilst parking vehicles at the premises. In some cases, loud music is being played as the revellers play hide and seek with the Police.
The Police remind the public that the threat of a third wave of the pandemic is still imminent according to medical experts.
Therefore the Zimbabwe Republic Police will arrest all operators who are not complying with the Government’s directive to remain closed.
The Commissioner-General of Police has directed Officer Commanding Provinces to take action and ensure modalities to allow the Government’s relevant Ministry to withdraw licences or permits are followed now.
Asst Comm Nyathi also pleaded with members of the public to report to the police all bars, beer halls, and restaurants operating illegally. He said:
The Public is implored to continue reporting bars, beer-halls, or restaurants operating illegally to the Police on National Complaints Desk number (0242) 703631 WhatsApp 0712 800 197 or Harare Operations number (0242) 748836 or Bulawayo Operations number (09) 73547.
On Wednesday Information, Publicity and Broadcasting Services Minister Monica Mutsvangwa said Cabinet had directed that bars and night clubs should remain closed indefinitely. She said:
Cabinet remains cognisant of the need to fully open all economic activities. However, in the face of the threat of a Third Wave, Cabinet has deferred consideration of the opening of bars and night clubs until further notice.