This as the country approaches the move to alert level 1 of lockdown, as a result of a significant decrease in Covid-19 transmission countrywide of late. Free State police spokesperson, Motantsi Makhele, tells OFM News, the Tweespruit, Botshabelo and Tseki Police Stations, the latter of which is located in Qwaqwa, will now undergo decontamination and deep cleaning. He says these community service centres will now operate from temporary bases, until these processes are completed.

The Botshabelo Station will temporarily operate from the community hall located in the H section of the large township. Tseki station will operate from the Bolata Tribal Office and Tweespruit will run from an adjacent site. Makhele says the “closure is necessary so that police stations can be disinfected and for affected members to undergo the necessary Covid-19 related protocols to avoid further spread of the virus. The community will be informed once the police station is operational”.

As has been done of late, community members will be notified, when the aforementioned police stations have been reopened. Free State police commissioner, Baile Motswenyane apologises for any inconvenience caused.

The country shifts to alert level 1 on Monday, 21 September. At present there are only 54 927 active cases to date. Alcohol sales will now be permitted from Monday to Friday, between 09:00 am and 17:00 pm. Curfew now begins at midnight, and ends at 04:00 am.

The move to level 1 has quite a significant impact on gatherings. According to the gazette, “Gatherings at faith-based institutions are limited to 250 persons or less in case of an indoor gathering and 500 persons or less in case of an outdoor gathering; Gatherings at social events are limited to 250 persons or less in case of an indoor gathering and 500 persons or less in case of an outdoor gathering; Gatherings at political events and traditional council meetings are limited to 250 persons or less in case of an indoor gathering and 500 persons or less in case of an outdoor gathering; Gatherings at conferences and meetings are limited to 250 persons or less in case of an indoor gathering and 500 persons or less in case of an outdoor gathering. Provided that persons participating through electronic platforms are not included in these limitations; Gatherings at a workplace for work purposes are allowed; Gatherings for recreational purposes at cinemas, theatres, concerts and live performances are limited to 250 persons or less in case of an indoor gathering and 500 persons or less in case of an outdoor gathering”.

Night clubs are among some of the buildings/activities that remain barred from opening at this level.

OFM News