"Hence, the police, in their law enforcement efforts, apply the principle of ultimum remedium. Hence, law enforcement is the last resort. To this end, we continue to prioritize preemptive and preventive measures," Brigadier General Awi Setiyono, the National Police’s spokesman, stated during a press conference with the Task Force for COVID-19 Response at Graha BNPB here on Thursday.
To enforce the implementation of Presidential Instruction (Inpres) Number 6 of 2020 on increased discipline and law enforcement of health protocols in the prevention and control of COVID-19, the police will reprimand offenders verbally and in writing.
The police will also edify the public to apply health protocols mandated to prevent the transmission of COVID-19, such as wearing masks, frequent handwashing, and maintaining distance in public places.
In line with the presidential instruction, Joko Widodo has issued four instructions to the police to support efforts to control the spread of COVID-19.
Firstly, the police are necessitated to support regional governments in the fight against the COVID-19 pandemic by deploying personnel to help enforce the implementation of health protocols by the public.
Secondly, the police must synergize with the Indonesian Defense Forces (TNI) to jointly patrol public places and monitor the application of health protocols.
The head of state’s third order calls on the police to raise public awareness, so they can play an active role and partake in efforts to prevent the transmission of COVID-19.
Finally, the police are urged to monitor the effectiveness of law enforcement against those found violating the implementation of health protocols.
President Widodo has instructed to conduct a massive public campaign on wearing masks to prevent the spread of COVID-19. Related news: Health Ministry boosts campaign on wearing face masks against COVID-19
Related news: Wearing face masks compulsory in Riau's Pekanbaru City: task force
Translator: Katriana, Fardah
Editor: Rahmad Nasution
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