Over 800 Unvaccinated Diners Were Caught Eating at Hawker Centres in the Past Week

If you’ve taken a break from reading Squid Game fan theories in the last few days, you’re probably aware that there’s been a rise in vaccinations ever since the authorities announced they were expanding the vaccination-differentiated measures.

In fact, a whopping 17,000 people received their first COVID-19 dose from 9 Oct to 15 Oct, up from 11,000 the week before.

Yes, it seems that despite their initial hesitancy, many flocked to vaccination centres so they could dine in and enter shopping malls.

But these guys tried circumventing the new rules in a different way: breaking them.

Over 800 Unvaccinated Diners Were Caught Eating at Hawker Centres in the Past Week

More than 800 unvaccinated individuals were found dining in at hawker centres in the past week, the National Environmental Agency said in a news release.

Even though the new vaccination-differentiated measures kicked in on 13 Oct, the NEA said safe distancing ambassadors and enforcement officers (SDEOS) had taken an “advisory approach” when they caught hawker centre diners who weren’t fully vaccinated.

Instead of a fine, they were simply urged to finish up their meal and leave the hawker centre promptly.

From today (20 Oct), however, enforcement action will be taken against those who breach the new measures.

“Police assistance will be requested for those who refuse to cooperate with the directions of the SDEOs,” NEA said.

As you know, unvaccinated individuals have not been able to enter malls, large standalone stores, attractions, or dine at hawker centres and coffee shops since 13 Oct.

The NEA advised seniors to minimise dining activity at hawker centres and opt for takeaway food instead. “Where possible, request for household members or neighbours to purchase takeaway food on their behalf,” it said.

Enforcement Taken Against 92 People For Breaching Safe Management Measures (SMMs)

Some errant diners weren’t as lucky, however.

From 15 to 17 Oct last week, the agency took enforcement action against 92 individuals for breaching SMMs at hawker centres.

These breaches included:

  • gathering in groups of more than two
  • not maintaining a safe distance of at least one metre
  • not wearing masks

The NEA reminded patrons that masks must be properly worn over the nose and mouth when one is not eating or drinking.

Surveillance cameras have been set up by the agency at selected centres to complement the physical monitoring of compliance of SMMs, it added.

And if you happen to get caught breaking COVID-19 rules, don’t give enforcement officers a hard time. As the NEA explained, these officers are simply ensuring that people are adhering to the SMMs in place for the sake of everyone’s safety.

“The authorities take a serious view of those who verbally or physically abuse public officers and will press charges in court where warranted,” it warned.

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Featured Image: NEA