43 sex workers deported from Mozambique

Police in Mozambique have deported 43 sex workers who were arrested for violating coronavirus safety protocols imposed on April 1.

The Director of the police provincial command, Fernando Ribeiro, said the 43 sex workers included Zambians and Zimbabweans.

The BBC reported that about 109 people were also arrested for violating the state of emergency regulation in the coastal Beira city.

The lockdown was part of measures to avert the possible spread of the deadly COVID-19 pandemic.

Apart from the sex workers, traders and individuals were found at drinking spots and along public roads.

Some of the alcohol sellers at the drinking spots were children.

As of May 28, Mozambique had confirmed 227 cases, with 12 people recovering from the virus and one death.

President Filipe Nyusi, on April 1, extended the state of emergency for another 30 days.

Schools have been closed as a result of the lockdown. Foreigners have also been denied access into the country as the virus continues to linger on.

The President urged the public to observe restrictions to combat the COVID-19 pandemic.

He also warned people to desist from going out unless for essential items.