Organizers and Attendees of Illegal Lockdown Events to Be Fined up to £10,000 GBP
The new fine applies to gatherings of more than 30 people.
As the coronavirus pandemic continues to keep many parts of the world on lockdown, the UK government has announced that it will be fining illegal party organizers and attendees up to £10,000 GBP (approximately $13,100 USD). The new rule will be enforced from Friday for gatherings of more than 30 people.
Having implemented plans for tougher penalties for unauthorized gatherings earlier this month, authorities have shared that those who aren’t wearing face coverings will also face a fine of £100 GBP (approximately $131 USD). The government has been introducing stricter measures to prevent the further spread of COVID-19 following a surge in confirmed cases in North-West England.
Over the weekend, the police have been breaking up more than 70 illegal gatherings including home and street parties. There have also been bigger raves involving around 300 people, where large speakers and party lights were installed. “To the organizers of this sort of activity, I strongly advise that you seriously consider the risks you’re creating for everyone in attendance and the wider community. There is a risk of prosecution for those who organize these events and equipment will be seized,” the National Police Chiefs’ Council (NPCC) commander Ade Adelekan told BBC.
With illegal gatherings emerging in different parts of the country, the police have shared that they were experiencing “fatigue and breaking point” as they receive complaints to break up gatherings.
