RGP appeals for community support in sticking to Covid rules

The Commissioner of the Royal Gibraltar Police has asked for cooperation from the public on Covid-19 regulations such as limiting gatherings to 20 people or self-isolating when asked to.

He made the appeal as he warned too that any caught infringing the regulations faced being fined.

This comes as the RGP is currently investigating a recent gathering where there were more than 20 people present.

This is in contravention to the Civil Contingencies Emergency (Coronavirus) (Restrictions on Gatherings No.5) Regulations 2020 which prohibit gatherings of more than 20 people in public places or residential premises except for specific exceptions.

An amendment in the law earlier this month allows the RGP to issue a fixed penalty notice for those who do not adhere to these regulations.

A spokesman for the RGP said a police officer may ask a group of more than 20 people to disperse if they are found to be in contravention of this legislation.

A fine can be issued if the person is taking part in this gathering or refuses to leave.

In addition, the Commissioner of Police may write to organisers intending to hold a gathering in a public place for more than 20 people, asking them not to hold or attend the gathering.

The RGP is also working with the Gibraltar Health Authority and will visit people who are being asked to self-isolate to ensure they are adhering to the instructions from the GHA and the Director of Public Health.

The RGP said in a statement: “The public are reminded that it is an offence not to self-isolate when directed to do so by the GHA or the Director of Public Health and fixed penalty notices will be issued to those who do not comply.”

Commissioner of Police, Richard Ullger, said: “I ask that people fully cooperate with my officers by understanding and complying with current legislation whether it is the wearing of a face mask, gathering in groups of less than 20 or being directed to self-isolate.”

“We continue to do everything in our power to protect you, your family and the wider community by preventing the spread of the virus.”