People who contravene the regulations regarding Covid-19 could face prison time. Spreading of fake news could result in a prison sentence of 6 months.
Here is what you need to know:
Dlamini-Zuma, Co-Operative Governance Minister, said that the spreading of fake news was a serious criminal offence. The regulation applies to both the creators of the fake Covid-19 news and to those who spread the news through social media and other channels.
Anyone who intentionally misrepresents that they are infected, will be charged. On conviction, the person will be liable to a fine or imprisonment for a period not exceeding 6 months, or both a fine and imprisonment.
The regulations will also see those who intentionally expose other to the virus punished. Spreading of Covid-19 intentionally, would result in the person being charged with assault, attempted murder or murder.
The regulations prohibit any person who is infected with Covid-19, or is suspected to be infected, from refusing to be examined, treated, isolated and quarantined.
For more information, contact Kugen Pillay at Goldberg & de Villiers Inc on 041 5019800.