Tasmania Police is continuing to use significant resources to target towns across the state to ensure people are not in breach of the COVID-19 restrictions over the Easter break.
Covert and marked police vehicles have undertaken checks at numerous towns and holiday hotspots including Richmond, Dodges Ferry, Boomer Bay, Pirates Bay, Port Arthur, White Beach, Bicheno, St Helens, Swansea, Triabunna, Orford, Buckland, Kettering, Woodbridge, Cygnet, Bridport and the Highland lakes.
The Westpac Rescue Helicopter has also undertaken surveillance flights over communities and camping grounds.
“Police have charged several people with offences including breaching stay at home provisions since the beginning of the Easter break,” said Commander Rob Blackwood.
During patrols in the past 24 hours, police intercepted 89 vehicles and spoke to the occupants to ensure they were complying with the restrictions.
Commander Blackwood said police warned 20 people to return to their primary place of residence.
“It is clear that the majority of people are doing the right thing and staying home to keep the community safe. In fact, many people are reporting others for breaching the restrictions; police have followed up more than 300 reports of non-compliance made by telephone or online to the Tasmanian Health Hotline.”
“We will be continuing our patrols today and over the remainder of the Easter break, so stay home and save lives,” Commander Blackwood said.
“Prepare to be stopped and spoken to by police about why you are away from home. This is very serious – if you don’t have valid reason to be away from home you will be directed to return home and you could be charged and summonsed to face court.”
“By now, everyone knows the rules and you are required to abide by them.”
Under the Public Health and Emergency Management Acts, there are penalties of up to 100 penalty units ($16,800) or imprisonment not exceeding 6 months for failing to comply with a lawful requirement or direction of an authorised officer.
