Fines dished out for not wearing masks

LOCAL police forces have started fining businesses and individuals who are not adhering to new regulations that were brought in by the Valencia regional government on July 19 to halt the spread of Covid-19.

In Orihuela a total of 100 people were fined this week for not wearing a face mask and not observing social distancing.

A council spokesman noted that three bars had been closed down over infringements.

The local police announced that checks will be increased at weekends in leisure and bar areas.

In Pilar de la Horadada a total of 12 people have been fined because for not wearing a face mask and another nine people were sanctioned for holding a drinks party on the beach.

Additionally, three illegal traders selling goods on the beach were hit under the legislation.

A council spokesman noted that local police and Protección Civil officers had been informing residents and holidaymakers about the new health measures and urging them to wear the face masks.

“The order regulating the fines has been in force since Saturday,” he said.

The local authorities urged teenagers and young residents and holidaymakers to behave responsibly by wearing a face mask.

Local police in Gandia and Oliva dished out 255 fines at the weekend to people not wearing masks out in public.

Gandía officers handed out 232 sanctions between Friday and Sunday inclusive for 'breach of anti-coronavirus regulations'. The particular offences were not revealed but are mostly thought to be residents and visitors being outside without a mask on, or not wearing them properly.

It is not known whether these figures include businesses reported for allowing too many customers in at once, or for gatherings, groups drinking in public or parties not respecting social distancing rules.

In Oliva, 23 people were fined for not wearing masks.

For a full report on the new fine tariffs turn to p9.