First Eatery to be Charged in Court After Breaking COVID-19 Rules

You’ve probably heard about the KTV which is forced to suspend business for 20 days, missing the New Year crowd.

But if you think that’s the worse that can be done to an F&B business for brazenly breaching Covid-19 measures, think again.

Because for the first time ever, an eatery is facing something more serious than a simple suspension.

First Eatery to be Charged in Court After Breaking COVID-19 Rules

On 30 Dec 2020, the Urban Redevelopment Authority (URA) announced that they’ll be bringing Invincible (BBCM), the operator of Invincible Noodle House in Boat Quay, to court.

They’ll be charged with offences under the Covid-19 (Temporary Measures) (Control and Order) Regulations 2020 on 2 Feb 2020.

The eatery was caught on 2 Oct 2020 for failing to ensure safe distancing between customers and not stopping customers from consuming alcohol after 10.30pm.

They were ordered to suspend their business between 3 Oct and 12 Oct 2020.

This is the first time an F&B business is brought to court over Covid-19 breaches.

Previously, they would be fined or suspended instead.

Keep Your Guard Up Even In Phase 3

In their statement, URA also urges businesses and members of the public to do their part in the fight against Covid-19.

“We urge businesses and members of the public to adhere to safe management measures. These will help to keep community transmissions low and our loved ones safe during this pandemic.”

It was added that alcohol consumption after 10.30pm is still not allowed, and asks F&B businesses not to accept reservations of more than 8 pax, even if they’re to be seated separately.

Previously, the authorities have also promised that enforcement checks at F&B businesses will be stepped up for the festive season.

Many Other People Caught Recently

In PM Lee’s “good news” speech, he cautioned that while Singapore is safe enough to progress to Phase 3, and that Covid-19 vaccines are here, it doesn’t mean that the virus is gone.

People should still keep their guard up and take the necessary precautions.

Government agencies have also been updating members of the public with results of their various operations, including:

• Catching 51 people drinking alcohol at a KTV on Christmas Day
• Nabbing 36 party-goers at a private party allegedly organised by 2 men in their 50s
• And issuing S$1,000 fines to seven eateries.

For those who are unclear about what you can do during Phase 3, you can find out more here.

Feature Image: URA / Google Map