Ban on gathering still in force – Police reminds public ahead of Easter
Ahead of the Easter festivities from 2nd to 5th April, the Ghana Police Service has cautioned the general to be mindful of the COVID-19 restrictions on public gatherings.
In a statement, the police said there would be enhanced security across the country during the festivities.
“Religious organisations could hold services not beyond two hours for 100 participants maximum, observing all other COVID-19 protocols. Conventions, crusades, pilgrimages and such large physical gatherings are not allowed,” according to the statement signed by Director of Police Public Affairs, Supt. Shiela Abayie-Buckman.
“The hosting of any carnival, festival, beach gathering, street dances, procession, parades and such events will be illegal. Night clubs are banned from opening as well as cinemas and movie houses. All activities of a “closed room” bar or pub, including those in hotels, remain illegal.”
It, however, gave an exception saying “open air drinking spots may operate provided that they observe all other COVID-19 protocols”.
The statement added that operators of tourist sites and attractions may open to the public, on condition that they ensure the wearing of face masks, social distancing and enhanced hygiene by all patrons.
Touching on funerals during the holiday season, the police reminded the public of the law concerning burials during this COVID-19 era.
” The ban on funerals still holds. However, private burials may be held with a maximum of twenty-five people if held outside the church or religious facility. For church or religious burial services, the maximum number of participants should be a hundred. In all cases, the COVID-19 protocols are expected to be observed and the duration shall be two hours maximum.”
Data from the National Road Safety Authority has shown over the years that there is a surge in accidents across the country during festive seasons.
In order to reduce road carnage and protect lives this Easter, the police announced it will work with road safety officers.
According to the police, they will be present at mapped out areas as well as accident-prone areas to ensure traffic regulations are strictly adhered to.
“People who drive beyond the speed limit, overload, drink and drive and indulge in such other traffic irregularities shall be arrested.”
To ensure strict compliance with the outlined rules governing this year’s Easter festivities, the police said plain-clothed and uniformed officers would be deployed to monitor compliance and take the necessary action.
It noted that certain facilities at the Police Hospital would be closed within the period, to make way for fumigation by the Ghana Health Service.
“The Police Administration, therefore, appealed to health facilities in the Greater Accra region to accept health issues or emergencies which would have otherwise been sent to the Police Hospital by Police Officers or patriotic citizens.”