ISLAMABAD: Capital police have started distributing masks, gloves and sanitisers among citizens to ensure their safety against novel coronavirus (Covid-19).

DIG (Operations) Waqaruddin Syed said this on Sunday while reviewing efforts of police against spread of Covid-19. He said police teams while distributing these items have been asking people to follow the district administration’s directives for combating Covid-19.

According to a statement, following directions of IGP Islamabad Mohammad Aamir Zulfiqar, Islamabad Police have launched an awareness campaign to educate citizens about precautionary measures in the fight against coronavirus and teams have been constituted to give safety tips to citizens.

He said: “Police and volunteers are jointly running the campaign while masks and gloves are being distributed by the police.” DIG Syed hoped that fight against coronavirus would be won through cooperation from people. He said that all SPs, DSPs and other police officials are fully coordinating with teams of district administration in their respective areas.

He said citizens must avoid unnecessary movement outside their homes for others’ and their own safety. Milk, vegetable and chicken shops would remain open and people would have to wear masks in the premises of shops, he added.

Customers should maintain distance of at least six feet while purchasing items, he said, adding shops will be sealed if their owners fail to ensure implementation on directions.

Published in Dawn, March 30th, 2020