Rolle says authorities will take “stiffer” approach amid new measures
NASSAU, BAHAMAS — Commissioner of Police (COP) Paul Rolle yesterday warned residents on Abaco and New Providence to abide by the emergency orders, indicating that police will be clamping down on social gatherings.
Rolle’s comments came following community initiatives in Bains and Grants Town, where he echoed similar sentiments expressed by Prime Minister Dr Hubert Minnis on Wednesday.
The prime minister announced increased restrictions for New Providence and Abaco, including a “full, 24-hour weekend curfew” over the upcoming holiday weekend and beyond, amid continued rising COVID cases on both islands.
Rolle cautioned Bahamians to “abide by these rules”.
“The lockdown takes effect 7pm on Friday and the police will be out ensuring compliance with it,” he said.
“In recent weeks, we have been having a lot of challenges with young people, in particular, having social gatherings and parties.
“I want to say to them not to do that. If we find that happening, we will be taking a more stiffer approach with those persons who seek to defy those orders.”
The full, 24-hour weekend curfew will begin on Friday at 7pm and end on Tuesday at 5am.
The nightly curfew on Mondays through Fridays will be in effect between 7pm and 5am beginning next week Tuesday, October 13.
Only certain essential services will be permitted during the full weekend curfew.
Minnis noted that the current situation on Abaco and New Providence requires the new restrictions to reduce infections and save lives, with deaths averaging one per day.
The prime minister also advised that no social gatherings will be permitted whatsoever on Abaco and New Providence.
“Police will be aggressive with pursuing those aggressively in the case of any Airbnb,” Minnis said.
“This will be strictly enforced in order to reduce and control the spread of COVID-19.”
He urged residents to report anyone engaging in social gatherings and parties.
The hotline number is (242) 702 9967-9.
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