UAE dismisses rumours that it is ‘spraying pesticides’ to curb spread of Covid-19

The UAE has rubbished reports that it is “spraying pesticides” to curb the spread of Covid-19.

“The National Crisis and Emergency Authority denied what is being circulated about spraying pesticides in the sky of the country as part of the precautionary measures to prevent coronavirus,” the UAE Government Communication Office said on Twitter.

The message comes after users on social media received a message stating that special military helicopters will spray pesticides all over the country “against the coronavius” and that people must stay indoors after 12am at night.

نفت “الهيئة الوطنية للأزمات والطوارىء” ما يتم تداوله عن رش مبيدات في سماء الدولة ضمن الإجراءات الاحترازية للوقاية من فيروس كورونا.#الامارات

— UAEGov (@uaegov) March 18, 2020

The National Crisis and Emergency authority called on the public to obtain information and news only from the official authorities and refrain from spreading rumours.

It warned that violators will be pursued and legal measures will be taken against them.

Earlier this week, the UAE warned people against spreading false information about the coronavirus outbreak.

“Spreading fake information and rumours is a crime punishable by law,” said Al Shamsi.

He stressed that the government has been proactive in taking all the required precautionary measures to address the situation.

Several people have been circulating rumours while also sharing videos showing families stocking food and other grocery products.

“Such material triggers unnecessary fear and panic among residents,” he explained.

Read: UAE warns that spreading rumours about Covid-19 via social media is ‘punishable by law’