COVID-19: Sex workers arrested over defying Ministry of Health guidelines

COVID-19

MBARARA-Police in Mbarara have arrested four sex workers over defying presidential directive and ministry of health guidelines on COVID-19.

These sex workers were arrested along High street, Mbarara for continuously conducting illegal business, which is contrary to the presidential directives and the constitution of the Republic of Uganda.

In an operation carried out over the weekend and Monday night, Police also impounded over 32 motorcycles and arrested six riders for riding beyond curfew hours and carrying passengers.

According to Kasasira Samson, the police spokesperson, Rwizi region, six pedestrians were also arrested for walking beyond curfew time.

Kasasira said, three females that include two juveniles and one adult were also arrested for operating a restaurant past curfew hours and on engagement, they became violent forcing the Police to apprehend them.

According to Police, the arrested persons are on charges of disobedience of lawful orders and for being negligent likely to spread infection of disease according to section 171 of the Penal Code Act.

Yusufu Kakembo, commander, Local Defence force in Mbarara said, "Let us have a common stand on Coronavirus. It is a serious threat to everyone. Please follow presidential guidance, if not we shall keep arresting you without mercy".

Byamugisha Ephraim, a Boda rider said, the continuous lockdown on the boda-boda transport business has affected riders and most of them are struggling to survive. He argues the government to allow work like taxi and bus operators. He said they are ready to follow all the guidelines that will be put in place by the government.

All the arrested are in Police custody at Mbarara Central Police Station and the motorcycles are also parked in the Police yard at Central Police Station, Mbarara.