People worried about the spread of coronavirus are dobbing in their neighbours to police

People worried about the spread of coronavirus are dobbing in their neighbours to police for breaching strict 14-day self-isolation orders.

Passengers returning to NSW from overseas must self-isolate for 14 days or risk six months in jail and $11,000 fines. Picture: James Gourley

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Residents of the northern beaches are dobbing in neighbours who they think are flouting tough new coronavirus quarantine orders.

Police confirmed they have received several calls about people, who recently returned from overseas, breaching the State Government’s self-isolation rules.

People who have been travelling internationally must quarantine themselves in their homes for 14 days.

People returning to NSW from international cruises must self-isolate for 14 days. Picture: James Gourley

Officers went to a home at Frenchs Forest on the weekend to deliver a warning letter to a man who was seen by neighbours repeatedly coming and going from a house when he was supposed to be self-isolating.

The resident was told he faced six months in jail, or an $11,000 fine, or both, if he ignored the Public Health (COVID-19 Quarantine) Order made by Health Minister Brad Hazzard to help stem the spread of the virus.

Northern Beaches Crime Manager, Michael Boutouridis, said officers had investigated several calls from the public about alleged quarantine breaches.

Passengers returning from overseas flights must self-isolate for 14 days. Picture: James Gourley

Chief Inspector Boutouridis said the letter to the man at Frenchs Forest stipulated that he must adhere to the quarantine direction or face heavy penalties.

“After a warning is given, the details of the person are listed on the police database and if they breach the order again they are given a Court Attendance Notice. If they breach the order after that, they will be arrested.”

Inspector Boutouridis pointed out that there were exceptions to the order if the resident had to visit a doctor or pharmacist.

NSW Health Minister Brad Hazard and NSW Chief Health Officer Dr Kerry Chant during a press conference where Mr Hazzard announced that people could face jail time and fines of up to $11,000 if they fail to comply with orders to self-isolate after returning from overseas. Picture: Tim Pascoe

“Police are treating all calls seriously,” he said. “We are also working with other law enforcement agencies to confirm that people, who have been identified by the public, are actually subject to a health quarantine order and have recently returned from overseas.

“Hopefully people will heed the threat of harsh penalties and arrest and do the right thing.”

The increased public vigilance comes after Northern Beaches Council reiterated that it would continue to closely monitor beaches and reserves to stop gatherings of more than 500 people.

The council closed a number of beaches, including Manly, Dee Why and Long Reef on Sunday, due to crowds causing social distancing concerns.

Northern Beaches Council workers put up “Area Closed” signs at Dee Why Beach on Sunday. Picture: Damian Shaw

The beaches were reopened on Monday morning, but Mayor Michael Regan said visitor numbers were being closely watched by police and lifeguards.

While the beaches have reopened the mayor reminded residents that popular social areas on East and West Esplanade at Manly will be strictly alcohol-free 24/7 until further notice. Police and council rangers will be patrolling these areas.