Apr 27, Colombo: Deputy Inspector General of Police (IGP) Ajith Rohana said that 40,095 persons have been arrested for violating curfew and quarantine laws since the curfew imposed in the country last month to combat COVID-19 pandemic.

The DIG further stated that 10,332 vehicles have also been taken into custody along with the people for traveling during the curfew imposed from March 20 to date.

He said within the last 12 hours alone up to 12 noon today 222 persons were arrested. The DIG added that no vehicle seized by the police will be released without due process and the curfew permit is mandatory for travel in areas where the curfew is in effect.

Deputy Inspector General of Police Ajith Rohana said this at a media briefing held at the National Operation Centre for Prevention of COVID-19 Outbreak (NOCPCO) this afternoon.

The official said the curfew will be lifted from 5 am Tuesday (28) until 8 pm in all districts except in the Western Province and Puttalam District.

He emphasized that even though the curfew is lifted, people are not allowed to gather or hold parties or travel except for essential needs. Also people who don’t observe the health practices such as social distancing will be arrested even if the curfew is not in force, he said.