Over 4,800 prosecuted in Morocco for violating health emergency curfew

A total of 4,835 people have been prosecuted in Morocco for violating the state of health emergency curfew, said the public prosecutor's office on Thursday in a statement.

They were arrested since March 24 when the law went into force which reprimands emergency measures violation over COVID-19.

The statement added that 334 of the prosecuted people were arrested and brought to justice.

Moroccan courts have handed down prison terms and sentenced some of these accused to pay fines, the statement said.

Morocco has enforced a nationwide lockdown for one month until April 20, restricted movements, and suspended private and public means of transport between cities.

Citizens could only leave their homes if they are provided with special authorization from local authorities.

According to the law, anyone who defies the state of medical emergency curfew and the orders of authorities could be sentenced up to three months in prison, and a fine of 140 U.S. dollars.

Morocco's confirmed cases of COVID-19 have risen to 708 on Thursday night of whom 44 have died and 31 have recovered, the Ministry of Health said.

(CGTN)