South Africans flouting level 3 regulations ‘will become a client of SAPS’, warns Cele
Police Minister Bheki Cele has warned South Africans not to tempt law enforcement by flouting lockdown regulations during the festive season.
This comes after President Cyril Ramaphosa’s decision to tighten measures amid a dramatic spike in Covid-19 cases.
Under level 3, masks are now mandatory.
Speaking during a National Coronavirus Command Council briefing on Tuesday, Cele said law enforcement will not hesitate to enforce arrests or issue a fine to lawbreakers.
“We are not just going to tell you or remind you to remind your mask. If you don’t wear your mask, you will definitely be arrested.
“We would have liked not to arrest you, we would have liked not to fine you, but if you avail yourself, we will take that opportunity to take you. We will not deny the opportunity to arrest you.
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“Prisons and police stations are not empty, but definitely there is your space if you break the law.”
The maximum jail term for flouting regulations on masks is a maximum of 6 months or a fine.
Fines will be determined by magistrates in court.
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He further warned alcohol traders not to take their chances amid the booze ban.
“Alcohol shall not be moved where it is. You will be arrested on that one.
“There are people that are causing some economic sabotage when it comes to alcohol, that they open the black market. Our eyes are very much open on that one and we are going to be tough.”
Traders risk losing their licenses or gain a criminal record.
Cele added that police will be out in their numbers to ensure regulations are adhered to.
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