Suspects to stand trial for violating anti-coronavirus measures

TDT | Manama

Nineteen suspects have been referred to criminal courts for the violation of nation-wide procedures and precautionary measures to combat the coronavirus (COVID-19). This was revealed yesterday by Chief Prosecutor Adnan Al Wadae following the completion of the Public Prosecution’s investigations into cases related to the violations.

The Public Health Directorate had reported to the Public Prosecution that 12 suspects had violated the mandatory home quarantine after leaving their homes during the assigned period, which is in breach of the confinement. The reports indicated that three other defendants had opened their shops and practised their business activities, in breach of the decisions to close commercial outlets and cafés. Reports also revealed that four officials in commercial outlets had failed to provide the health requirements to protect their clients and prevent the spread of COVID-19, as they did not screen the temperature of their workers and customers, nor did they ask them to leave the required social-distancing space, sanitise shopping carts after use, or provide gloves for their staff. A café was also charged as the law imposes fines on legal persons.

The Public Prosecution had questioned the suspects and ordered their release on financial guarantees. It also referred them to the low criminal court, and they will stand trial on Wednesday. The Chief Prosecutor asserted that investigations are still underway in similar reports by the Public Health Directorate, noting that a maximum three-year prison sentence and a maximum BD 10,000-fine is the penalty inflicted on the crime of violating the health and precautionary measures to combat the coronavirus.