The main crisis HQ recently held a session, but did not propose adoption of new, more radical measures to curb the spread of the coronavirus. However, these have not been ruled out, Interior Minister Oliver Spasovski told Slobodna TV’s Morning Briefing show on Monday.
“The right of inviolability of home will not be breached, but police have to carry out controls. Police officers can act upon reports to check whether people abide by anti-COVID measures,” Spasovski said.
Regarding increased police controls on city streets, the Minister stressed police officers’ activities to sanction traffic violations.
“Traffic officers are taking part in activities throughout the country. They target certain municipalities to reduce traffic violations and will remain active. Over 14,000 traffic violations have been registered recently. Moreover, police officers are also sanctioning face mask rule violations. On average, some 1,000 people are fined each day for not wearing face masks,” Spasovski noted.
Regarding comments that fines serve to increase the budget, he stressed that the budget is stable and that sanctions aim to solve serious issues, such as traffic accidents.
“The effects are visible. Statistically, violations are down 7.5%. Together we can curb the spread of COVID-19. It’s not only up to institutions, every citizens has the responsibility to protect public health. There are decisions to be made and establish control. The right of inviolability of home will not be breached, but we have to carry out controls. Police officers will act upon reports to check whether people abide by anti-COVID measures,” Spasovski underlined.
