lockdown

PHOTO: Outgoing Police Commissioner Mike Bush said on Monday that there would be an increased police presence. Photo credit: Getty

A security expert is warning business owners to properly secure their premises as he predicts crime will rise during the nationwide coronavirus lockdown.

All non-essential businesses must now close after Prime Minister Jacinda Ardern announced on Monday that New Zealand was under alert level 3, the “restrict” stage of fighting the spread of coronavirus COVID-19. Aotearoa currently has 102 cases of the virus, with two likely to be the result of community transmission.

On Wednesday night, the country will move to level 4, the top-level, which locks down the nation and requires everyone to stay indoors unless it is absolutely necessary to go out.

During the lockdown, which is expected to last at least four weeks, police will be assisted by the defence force in ensuring compliance. Alongside the Summary Offences Act, which sets out offences like disorderly behaviour, assault and vandalism, police will be enforcing the Public Health Act.

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