UAE warns of hefty fines for those violating Covid-19 precautions

The UAE government has warned of penalties and legal action against those found flouting preventive measures to curb the spread of the Covid-19 infection.

“The Federal Emergency, Crisis and Disasters Prosecution is collaborating with the relevant authorities to find any violations of the current precautionary measures, to ensure that all members of society remain committed to stemming the spread of the Covid-19,” Salem Al Zaabi, acting director of the Federal Emergency, Crisis and Disasters Prosecution said.

“Since completion of the National Disinfection Programme, the relevant authorities have observed a significant increase in the number violations of the preventative measures. Such reckless behaviour will work against the preventative measures, which have been so important in helping to control the spread of the virus.”

These violations include failing to ensure safety distance norms; failing to wear masks; and organising gatherings in public and private places.

“Gatherings in public and in private places as well as in houses, farms and estates is prohibited,” he said.

Family visits must be restricted to first degree relatives and physical distancing norms should be practiced at all times, especially when around elderly people and those suffering from chronic diseases.

Medical or cotton masks must be worn in all closed places, workplaces, private and public means of transport and commercial centers as well as while walking in densely populated open areas and in labour camps.

Patients with Covid-19 should abide by home or facility quarantines, repeat tests as per the instructions and are encouraged to download the TraceCovid app. “Failing to abide by these rules will result in legal action and fines,” Al Zaabi noted.

“As per the Attorney General’s decision, the fine will be doubled for those found to be repeating the violation. Third time offenders will be subject to legal action and could face imprisonment for a period of up to six months and an increased fine of Dhs100,000.”

The UAE reported 387 new Covid-19 infections on June 27, as a result of more than 52,527 additional tests conducted among UAE citizens and residents. The total number of infections in the country has scaled to 47,360. Meanwhile, the additional death of a Covid-19 patient has increased the fatality count to 311, official news agency WAM reported.

“With the gradual return to normalcy, the responsibility is now more on UAE citizens and residents to comply with the instructions and measures aimed at ensuring the continued success of all the efforts made,” said Amna Al Dahak Al Shamsi, official spokesperson of the UAE Government.

The total number of recoveries from the Covid-19 infection across the UAE has crossed 35,834, with a total of 11,215 individuals still being treated, most of whom are in stable condition.

آخر الإحصائيات حول إصابات فيروس كورونا المستجد (كوفيد 19) في الإمارات
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— وزارة الصحة ووقاية المجتمع الإماراتية – MOHAP UAE (@mohapuae) June 27, 2020