Extra police and drones over Eid to uphold Covid-19 safety measures

Officers across the UAE will monitor busy public areas to ensure people follow coronavirus rules

A police officer in Dubai earned a promotion after turning down a bribe from a suspected cybercriminal. Pawan Singh / The National

Police patrols and drones across the UAE over Eid Al Adha will ensure people comply with Covid-19 safety measures.

Sharjah Police said 180 patrols would oversee traffic while marine units would be on hand to protect beachgoers.

Officers will be on patrol in public areas to uphold physical distancing measures and ensure Emiratis and residents wear masks at all times.

Dubai Police will keep a close eye on public beaches, which are expected to be busy at the weekend.

“We have seen large numbers come to Dubai beaches during Eid Al Fitr and we expect to see more during this Eid,” said Lt Col Ali Al Naqbi, director of Maritime Rescue at Dubai Police.

He said the goal was not to issue fines but to protect the public from contracting the coronavirus.

“Our officers always start by explaining safety rules to people and talking about the importance of adhering to them,” he said.

“They even give away masks and gloves for those who are found without ones, and talk to those found gathering in large groups.”

Dubai patrols will be on Kite Beach, Al Hamriya Beach, Al Mamzar Beach, Sunset Beach and Jumeirah Beach.

“Many people are expected to come to these locations and families are likely to bring their caravans. Therefore we will increase beach security, quad bikes, jet skis and cycling patrols and also provide lifeguards and rescuers,” he said.

Drones will be used to identify residents and Emiratis found breaking the safety measures.

“Fines will only be handed out to those who insist on breaking rules despite warnings and officers’ advice,” he said.

Lt Col Al Naqbi asked anyone intending to go sailing over Eid to download the police's Safe Sail application.

“Instead of wasting time trying to locate someone in distress, this app can track the cruise's journey and help rescue teams arrive in record time,” he said.

Fines of up to Dh3,000 await anyone caught not wearing a mask or maintaining a safe distance of at least two metres from others.

Eid Al Adha preparations around the world:

PAKISTAN BELIEF ISLAM EID AL A?DHA

Sheep are on sale at a market ahead of the Muslim festival of Eid al-Adha in Peshawar, Pakistan. EPA