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A returning resident who recently escaped from quarantine at Panganani Centre in Plumtree has been arrested near Figtree and is the 31st of 302 returnees who escaped quarantine and have been arrested.
Police yesterday said they were concerned about the increase in the number of people escaping from the formal and compulsory quarantine all returning residents have to undergo as one of the measures to stop the spread of Covid-19.
Some of those escaping scale security walls and fences after misleading officials they want to relieve themselves during the night while there are reports that corrupt officials or guards open the gate in exchange for bribes ranging between US$5 and US$20.
Police said they were seeking to establish how escapees leave the quarantine centres, amid strong suspicion they were taking advantage of the time allocated to refresh or during meal times.
The public has been advised to report any people they suspect to have escaped from quarantine centres, so that they are swiftly arrested.
Without giving details, police said they will continue monitoring quarantine centres and security has been beefed up.
Recently, police said most escapees were taking advantage of porous security fences and walls at some of the institutions and poor lighting.
Last week, seven returnees including four women from Malawi, escaped from quarantine in Masvingo and Harare.
The four women escaped from Mushagashe Training Centre in Masvingo, while the other three escaped from Churchill School in Harare.
Another five people escaped from Guyu Vocational Training Centre in Matabeleland South Province.
Meanwhile, 139 270 people have been arrested countrywide since March 30 for violating lockdown regulations, with almost all paying admission of guilt fines, although more serious offenders go to court.
Most of them have been arrested for failing to wear face masks, unnecessary movements, liquor related offences, violating the Road Traffic Act and operating businesses without exemption.
Police have urged everyone to prioritise people’s health.
There are concerns over unnecessary movements mainly in high density suburbs and highways.
Some motorists are moving around in vehicles without registration number plates, to commit crimes and cover their tracks.
Officers manning checkpoints have since been ordered to take stern action against errant motorists.
Once such motorists are arrested, their vehicles will be impounded and the driver will likely appear in court once investigations have been completed.
Online Reporter