COVID-19: Kuwait, Qatar impose jail term for people found without masks

Kuwait and Qatar reportedly anunced on May 17 that people who would be found without wearing protective face masks will be charged with fine and jail time. Kuwait's health ministry said while speaking at press conference, that those caught t following health safety protocol can face up to three months in prison, while Qatar state TV reported same term. 

According to reports, Kuwait can impose maximum fine of 5,000 dinars ($16,200) and Qatar 200,000 riyals ($55,000). With over 2.8 million population, Qatar has 32,604 cases of coronavirus with 15 fatalities so far. Meanwhile, Kuwait has recorded 14,850 total cases and 112 deaths. Overall, out of total population of around 30 million people, Saudi Arabia, has 54,752 cases and 312 fatalities have been registered. While UAE has a total 23,358 confirmed cases and  second-highest number of COVID-19 deaths among six states at 220. 

Earlier,  United Arab Emirates h me an anuncement that a total curfew would be imposed to stem spre of vel coronavirus, during which, government will also conduct a nationwide disinfection drive. In a statement, Emirates Federation said that curfew will be imposed blocking main entrances to Al Ras. Furr, it mentioned that public transportation will be suspended with immediate effect in area that provided commercial connectivity for goods transportation between Iran and Dubai, a region that h turned to epicentre of outbreak. 

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Drive-thru test centres

UAE h also reportedly anunced drive-thru test centres across region’s tourism and business hubs to test suspected cases of COVID-19.  centre was launched in capital of Abu Dhabi. Abu Dhabi Crown Prince Sheikh Mohammed bin Zayed al-Nayhan was quoted saying by state brocasters that UAE will never hesitate to take stern measures to safeguard citizen’s lives. He stressed that region will also simultaneously man business and would t let development come to a halt.  

UAE government instructed mandatory closure of all malls and markets across region. It, however, exempted pharmacies, supermarkets, co-ops and wholesale open markets, such as fish and meat markets from mandatory lockdown. UAE’s Ministry of Interior and National Crisis and Disasters Manment Authority urged people to stay indoors and allowed only essential movements, as per local media reports.  

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(Im Credit: AP)