Dubai Police arrest European for mocking health measures at beach amid virus fears
- 23 Mar 2020
Gulf Today, Staff Reporter
Dubai Police have arrested a European national who posted a video on social media at a beach in Dubai, ignoring the instructions of a police patrol, while mocking precautionary measures issued by health authorities.
Authorities in the UAE have closed beaches and most public places to stem the spread of coronavirus cases.
A video of the incident obtained by Gulf Today revealed a man going live on Instagram Stories to mock the calls of the police. He also wrote abusive remarks on the video.
It is not known which country the man belongs to.
The General Command of the Dubai Police warned that residents must comply with the directives issued by security entities, be they local or federal. If safeguards for public health are violated, residents will be held accountable and face legal measures.
Meanwhile, Dubai's Crisis and Disaster Management Team urged community members to refrain from going to beaches, parks, cinema theatres, and sport complexes, as per the decision by the Ministry of Health and Prevention.
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The measures have been taken for your safety and the safety of others.
The UAE on Friday reported the first two deaths from coronavirus in the country. The total number of infections has reached 153.
Authorities have urged residents to maintain social distancing to avoid being infected. And in case of home quarantine, a person must follow the World Health Organization’s recommendations.
A person in home quarantine should occupy a well-ventilated single room, or if a single room is not available, maintain a distance of at least one metre from other household members, minimising the use of shared spaces and cutlery and ensuring that shared spaces, such as the kitchen and bathroom, are well ventilated.
