AUTHORITIES apprehended more than 800 persons in the cities of Talisay and Lapu-Lapu for violating the round-the-clock curfew and other provisions implemented during the enhanced community quarantine which took effect early this week to prevent the spread of the new coronavirus.
In Talisay City, police caught 201 violators, mostly minors playing basketball in the streets. When the police asked why they were not staying inside their homes, the teenagers' common alibi: they had no knowledge about the quarantine and 24-hour curfew.
The city was placed under enhanced community quarantine at 12:01 a.m. on Monday, March 30, 2020.
Mayor Gerald Anthony "Samsam" Gullas Jr. said his constituents must understand that the implementation of enhanced community quarantine in the city is a serious matter.
Police caught 79 violators last March 30; 59 last March 31; and 63 last April 1.
"I thank the police for their constant support. But the police cannot do this alone. All of us must play our part to put an end to all of these," read Gullas' message posted on his Facebook page.
In Lapu-Lapu City, more than 600 violators were apprehended.
Mayor Junard “Ahong” Chan last Tuesday, March 31, announced in a live video stream that cases were filed against the violators. He placed Lapu-Lapu City under enhanced community quarantine at 12:01 a.m. on Sunday, March 29.
A total of 14 persons were arrested for participating in tigbakay, an illegal cockfighting event and 265 adults were rounded up for violating curfew. There were 302 drivers cited for not implementing social distancing among their passengers and 92 minors were apprehended during curfew hours. (JCT)