KZN may head back into hard lockdown, warns Zikalala
KwaZulu-Natal Premier Sihle Zikalala says we'll be heading back into a hard lockdown if there isn't an immediate change in behaviour.
He's slammed those who've been ignoring COVID-19 safety rules and behaving recklessly - despite repeated warnings of a possible second wave.
"Despite our warnings about tangible examples of a second wave of infections and deaths, it seems that many people have thrown all caution to the wind and gone back to their old ways.
"Gone are the masks, and sanitizing of hands, as well as adhering to social distancing. In many instances, if you didn't know, you'd swear there was no COVID-19 lurking; let alone the fact we are still under a national lockdown."
The province has recorded 1 720 new cases in the past two weeks.
READ: 24 more COVID-19 deaths take SA's toll to 18 968
The Harry Gwala District had the highest number of new infections, provincially within this period.
Speaking at a provincial COVID-19 briefing on Sunday, Zikalala called on establishments to be firm about enforcing safety regulations.
He's also issued a warning to liquor traders who flout the lockdown rules.
"There is no use in chasing profits today, only to be shut down by a hard lockdown tomorrow. All alcohol outlets that are not following the instructions will have to face the law.
"Reckless trading in alcohol, therefore, has the potential to derail all the progress that we have made in preparing our healthcare systems for a potential onslaught of COVID-19"
