The Zimbabwe Republic Police (ZRP) had arrested 485 people countrywide by Thursday for failing to observe the lockdown restrictions announced by the government last week.
National police spokesperson Assistant Commissioner Paul Nyathi told The Herald on Thursday night that those arrested were found guilty of operating shebeens (illegal pubs), failing to observe social distance in queues, while some motorists were also arrested for moving around without purpose.
Some of the culprits were arrested for trying to bribe or lying to police details manning roadblocks in a bid to take advantage of the exemption rule on essential services providers.
Police officers and municipal police have mounted roadblocks on several roads in Harare. They ask people to produce letters from employers or relevant authorities showing that they are providing essential services. Those who fail to do so face arrest.