ARCHIVED - 3,000 fined and 14 arrested in Murcia for breaking coronavirus lockdown restrictions

The Guardia Civil and the national police continue to fine offenders in the Costa Cálida

As the coronavirus lockdown in Spain nears the end of its second week the Guardia Civil and the Policía Nacional report that between them in the Region of Murcia they have arrested 14 people and fined over 3,000 for breaking the restrictions on movement imposed by the national government on 12^th March.

These figures were supplied on Wednesday by José Vélez, the central government delegate to the Region of Murcia, and reflect how difficult it appears to be for many people in the Region to appreciate the fact that by remaining at home except when absolutely necessary they are protecting their own health as well as that of those closest to them and the population in general. It also has to be remembered that the figures recorded by the Guardia and the national police do not necessarily take into account the fines and arrests made by local police forces across the country: in Cartagena alone, for example, another 165 people were reported by the Policía Local during last weekend alone.

Sr Vélez adds that most of the population is behaving responsibly and obeying the rules, but unfortunately it is inevitable that some will believe themselves to be above the law and it is necessary to punish them appropriately.

Remember: LOCKDOWN MEANS LOCKDOWN. STAY AT HOME. STAY SAFE AND DO YOUR BIT TO REDUCE THE SPREAD OF CORONAVIRUS.

What to do if you are in the Region of Murcia and believe you may have contracted the virus

The regional government has set up a special helpline to supply information to members of the public (900 121212)if they suspect that they may have contracted the virus rather than going straight to hospital or to a medical centre. Medical staff will be sent to your home to test for the virus.

Sensible precautions

The advice being issued to members of the public by medical authorities all over the world coincides on the following points:

- Wash hands frequently with either soap and water or a sanitiser gel

- Catch coughs and sneezes with disposable tissues – and throw the tissues away immediately after use before immediately washing your hands!

- If you don’t have a tissue, use your sleeve – and wash the item of clothing used at the next opportunity

- AVOID touching your eyes, nose and mouth with unwashed hands

- AVOID close contact with people who are unwell