Highly visible police patrols as Easter draws to a close

As the Easter long weekend draws to a close today, Tasmanians are reminded police will be conducting frequent and highly visible patrols.

 

Police report that in the past 24 hours there were 10 summons and 5 arrests for breach of the directions of the Director of Public Health, and 40 advice and warnings issued.

 

“It seems that most of the community is acting responsibly, however there are still examples of people taking risks and selfishly ignoring the restrictions,” said Acting Deputy Commissioner Jonathan Higgins.

 

“Marine and Rescue resources were deployed to Coles Bay overnight to tow a stranded vessel to safety following an engine failure. The male occupant had driven from Hobart to Coles Bay and being outside of his municipality will be investigated for failing to comply with directions under the Public Health Act.

 

“In addition, two women from Devonport who were found shopping in Deloraine and another woman after being found at a party at Winnaleah.

 

“With the additional stronger restrictions on retail activity now in place in the North West  – there are fewer reasons to leave your home,” said Acting Deputy Commissioner Higgins.

 

Police are continuing to use significant resources to ensure compliance of the restrictions, including numerous patrols, with covert and marked vehicles and the Westpac Rescue Helicopter in the north west.

“This is a very serious situation for the north west community and this is a significant opportunity, over the next two weeks, to stop the spread of the virus by simply staying home,” said Acting Deputy Commissioner Higgins.

 

“If you’re not impacted by the new quarantine requirements, and you need to leave your home for essential purposes, then expect to be stopped and questioned by police about your movements.”

 

Under the Public Health and Emergency Management Acts, there are penalties of up to 100 penalty units ($16,800) or imprisonment not exceeding 6 months for failing to comply with a lawful requirement or direction of an authorised officer.