Over 150 people fined for flouting safe distancing rules; 100 others caught without masks in public: Masagos

SINGAPORE — More than 150 people will be fined for breaching safe distancing rules, and another 100 people were going about without masks in public, Mr Masagos Zulkifli said on Friday (April 17).

In a Facebook post, the Environment and Water Resources Minister said those caught flouting safe distancing rules were found dining at food-and-beverage outlets, loitering in public spaces and defying other regulations meant to control the spread of the coronavirus causing Covid-19.

Mr Masagos added that while most people have been cooperative, enforcement officers and safe distancing ambassadors continue to come across “unreasonable and difficult people”. 

The authorities this week mandated the use of masks in public places.

Enforcement began on Thursday, when nearly 50 people were caught breaking the rule. Mr Masagos said then: "It is a good sign, but I hope we will find none tomorrow (Friday)." 

First-time offenders will receive a S$300 fine, and those who contravene the rule for the second time face a S$1,000 penalty. Serious cases will be prosecuted in court. 

Mr Masagos had earlier warned that the 28-day circuit breaker period, which ends on May 4, may not be enough to break the chain of coronavirus transmission if Singaporeans do not play their part. 

On Friday, he again urged the public to comply with the rules. 

“Let us not waste the efforts of the majority. All of us have had to make major adjustments to our daily routines, and the way we work and live,” he said. 

“Every individual effort counts and makes a positive difference to Singapore’s efforts to battle Covid-19. Let us continue to encourage and support one another to weather the remaining 17 days together.”