Tasmania Police sting 144 people for breaking COVID-19 lockdown rules

Almost 150 Tasmanians have been charged or summonsed to court for failing to comply with coronavirus restrictions as police continue to crackdown on rule breakers.

MORE than 10,000 COVID-19 quarantine compliance checks have been carried out in Tasmania over the past four weeks, with 144 people charged or summonsed.

Tasmania Police Acting Deputy Commissioner Jonathan Higgins said 3270 compliance checks had been carried out in the South, 2330 in the North and 4640 in the North-West.

He said 364 vehicle checks had also been carried out in the North-West, with some motorists turned around and sent home.

Acting Deputy Police Commissioner Jonathan Higgins. Picture: CHRIS KIDD

Police have been using marked and unmarked patrol vehicles and a helicopter to monitor the region.

“While the vast majority of Tasmanians continue to do the right thing by staying home, there are still some people who aren’t abiding by restrictions and we will continue to follow these reports up,” he said.

“For those of you who are required to isolate, expect a phone call and a visit by police, TFS, SES or ADF personnel to check your identification.

“If you do need to leave your home, then expect to be stopped and questioned by police about your movements.

“Police are also following up reports of business noncompliance and ensuring major retailers are open to trade customers only.”

Police officers conduct compliance checks at the Farmgate Market. Picture: Zak Simmonds

Acting Deputy Commissioner Higgins said it was a difficult time for the North-West community and police were doing all they could to support people through this period.

“More than ever, we are asking Tasmanians to stay home to save lives,” he said.

“This is a very serious situation for the North-West community and this is a significant opportunity to stop the spread of the virus by simply staying home.”

Under the Public Health and Emergency Management Acts, failing to comply with a lawful requirement or direction of an authorised officer is punishable with fines up to $16,800 or imprisonment not exceeding six months.