Prime Minister Hubert Minnis Announces a National Lock-down

Dr. Minnis says the lockdown is necessary to fight the spread of the coronavirus

The Royal Bahamas Police Force continues to patrol the streets of the Bahamas, enforcing an order by Prime Minister Hubert Minnis who imposed a mandatory curfew on the country.

The curfew went into full effect on Friday at 9 pm and ended at 5 am on Saturday.

But that routine will continue until March 31st.

Dr. Minnis ordered that the curfew be imposed as a measure to assist in the fight against the spread of covid-19 virus.

According to the prime minister, the emergency order gives the government the authority to use a temporary, but necessary measure.

He added that the curfew will end after consultation with medical professionals.

At a press briefing, Dr. Minnis outlined the emergency order. Exceptions to the order include pharmacies, gas stations, commercial ports and related businesses, security guard companies and the Bahamas Red Cross.

Airports, laundromats and wash houses will open from 6:00 am to 5:00 pm. Water depots will open from 9 am to 5 pm.

Restaurants, drive-thru or take away food vendors will open from 6:00 a.m. to 7:30 p.m. and construction companies will carry out any construction work from 6:00 a.m. to 7:00 p.m.

This order does not affect the function of essential officers like police and defense force officers.

However, the order affects individuals getting married, funerals, or any social events within the next 11 days.

According to the order, if a person, company or organization violates the order, he or she will face a fine not exceeding $10,000 and/or imprisonment of up to 18 months.