Social gatherings come under the scanner

Our correspondent

The Emergency and Crisis Prosecution Office (ECPO) at the Federal Public Prosecution has issued detention orders for eight persons who hosted wedding parties in separate places in the UAE, and which were attended by large numbers of guests in violation of the COVID-19 precautionary measures.

The Abu Dhabi Police GHQ and the Ras Al Khaimah Police GHQ referred eight persons for legal action.

Under the federal decree, Law No. 2 of 2011 in respect of the establishment of the National Emergency, Crisis and Disasters Management Authority (NCEMA) and its amendments, failing to adhere to precautionary measures is punishable by imprisonment of not more than six months and a fine of not less than AED 100,000 or any one of them.

On September 18, the Ministry of Health and Prevention (MOHAP) and NCEMA had announced that any family event in the UAE, including funeral processions, should not have more than 10 people in attendance. The rule is part of the new set of safety guidelines for organising social events in the country.

NCEMA also clarified in its tweets that a family event should have only first-degree relatives. All attendees should ideally be tested at least 24 hours before the event. Buffets are strictly prohibited; disposable plates and cups should be used while handling surfaces at the venue should be disinfected periodically, and hand sanitisers should be widely made available. Social events will be closely monitored, and action will be taken against violators.

Social distancing and etiquette for coughing and sneezing should be observed; a gap of at least two metres must be observed between people; anyone with COVID symptoms should desist from attending social events. People with chronic diseases and the elderly should avoid gatherings, NCEMA urged.

According to the new protocol, only 10 persons can attend a funeral service, only two can be hired for digging graves, while pallbearers should be limited between 4 and 8.