Maldives Police Service (MPS) has stated it will ensure the public follows instructions from the Health Protection Agency (HPA) despite the decision to ease the lockdown imposed in the Greater Male' Region.
Speaking at the daily press briefing held at the National Emergency Operations Centre (NEOC), Assistant Commissioner of Police Ismail Naveen said MPS is resolute in ensuring people adhere to safety instructions from the authorities. Naveen noted individuals can now go outside between 0500hrs and 2200hrs without a police permit, while shops can be open for business from 0900hrs to 2100hrs. However, he urged the public to practice physical distancing and to wear marks.
Noting the police is working to enforce measures from the HPA, the assistant commissioner said MPS will no longer fine or arrest people for breaching lockdown orders. However, Naveen said MPS will attend to scenes if a crowd is formed.
The assistant commissioner said MPS will also communicate the places in which frequent gatherings take place, through a reporting back mechanism with the HPA. He further called the public to refrain from speeding and urged to follow traffic rules as the number of vehicles on the streets is also expected to increase.
The assistant commissioner urged the public to take care of their households and personal belongings, noting the crime rate in the capital city decreased during the strict lockdown imposed on April 15.