Eight persons arrested without wearing face masks, nor observing other COVID-19 safety protocols, at Eke Awka market roundabout, have been subjected to community service of clearing refuse from nearby gutters.
The arrest is coming barely one week after the Anambra state government set up a Monitoring and Enforcement Task Force for the newly signed Anambra State Covid-19 law,
Apart from obtaining and putting on face masks, the violators were made to enter the deep gutters from where they evacuated debris and refuse, generated from commercial activities in the market vicinity.
The Task Force met last week Tuesday, following Gov Willie Obiano disappointment to the disobedience of many residents to Covid-19 safety protocols including wearing of protective face masks, washing of hands with soap, maintaining social distancing and avoiding crowded places.
The Committee comprises representatives of the state government including the Secretary to the State government, the Attorney General and Commissioner for Justice, Special Adviser to the Governor on Creative Security who is also Managing Director Anambra State Fire Service.
The Committee also includes Special Adviser to the Governor on Security, Commissioner for Transport, representatives of security agencies including Correctional services, the police, Civil Defence, OCHA Brigade, and ATMA.
According to the Secretary to the State Government, Professor Solo Chukwulobelu, Mobile courts to try offenders have been set up in two locations in Onitsha, Idemili North, two locations in Awka South and Nnewi.
Offenders on conviction would have the option of paying ten thousand naira fine, or they will be committed to community service or both.
The SSG used the occasion to warn those who walk around the streets of Anambra state, without wearing protective face masks to get ready for the consequences, adding that no offender will be spared.
