Police step up patrols for more visibility |07 January 2021
In the wake of a spike in the number of Covid-19 cases in Seychelles, the police are stepping up their efforts to help enforce the public health regulations in force.
They have looked at their operation plan, revised it and planned more patrols for enhanced visibility.
They are also working with the military and have started joint patrols with them.
The situation on the ground is quite ‘acceptable’, noted Chief Superintendent and Head of Visible Policing, Francis Songoire, in a press conference held yesterday at the police headquarters.
“Most people are adhering to the regulations by wearing their masks. But we still find some people not complying. We are also discouraging people to gather in public and even at homes, especially people who are not from the same household. We have also taken the decision to boost the capacity of the La Digue station by sending more officers there. Most Seychellois are hearing what are being said and we are having some isolated cases,” added Chief Superintendent Songoire.
Following a call from President Wavel Ramkalawan urging the police to break up groupings in the ghettoes, Chief Supt. Songoire noted that in-depth discussions are ongoing on how to tackle these places as they are ‘sensitive’ areas.
Chief Supt. Songoire also explained that when on patrol or arresting someone, the police take all hygiene measures.
“We are trying not to fill up our cells in order to eliminate the transmission of the virus,” he added.
Assistant Superintendent Antoine Desnousse emphasised on the groupings of people around shops, beach or parking. “Our priority is to enforce the law and we also have families to look after. If we get infected then there will be a major issue. There are shops who are supposed to sell food items, but they are selling mainly alcohol. If we keep seeing some abuses by the shop owners and if they are not following the Public Health Orders, we will order them to close the shops.”
Assistant Supt. Desnousse also noted that “the fine of R100 is a ‘farce’ and needs to be reviewed so that the public understand the consequence of not wearing a mask. Day by day, the situation is getting worse and we are urging the public to help us protect you! Your health is your responsibility. You do your part and we do our part”.
To conclude the press conference, Chief Supt. Songoire noted that from the last lockdown, there are people who were arrested due to non-adherence to the public health regulations of which case file was compiled thanks to the Attorney General’s Office. Today we are fairly satisfied that many cases have been heard and people have received fines ranging from R5,000 to R10,000. If in default of paying the fine, the person can find himself at the Montagne Posée prison.
The message out there is for people to adhere to the guidelines as the situation is scary. All regulations apply for all the islands.
Vidya Gappy