The Lilongwe Senior Resident Magistrate’s Court has convicted 14 people for contravening COVID-19 regulations. 

The 14 who appeared before Magistrate Florence Msekandiana, are bar operators who were arrested at Pondamali and 6 miles in Lilongwe for operating their businesses beyond the stipulated 8pm.

The court ordered the convicts to pay a K10, 000 fine which the paid on Friday upon appearing before the Court.

Confirming the development, Lilongwe Police Station Deputy Public Relations Officer Sergeant Foster Benjamin said the convicts are a threat to society because of the failure to comply with the COVID-19.

“These bar operators were arrested for operating their business further than 8pm which is the stipulated hour.

It’s just unfortunate and uncalled for that some unpatriotic continue acting contrary to these gazetted regulations, and in turn being a risk to society and a setback in the fight against the pandemic,” said Sergeant Benjamin.

Police arrested and charged the suspects with contravening coronavirus and Covid-19 regulations, which is contrary to Section 20 Sub Section 3 of the Malawi Public Health Act.

During their trial, the accused pleaded guilty as charged and the State asked the Court to give out stiffer punishment.