'Keep it up' says grateful Highland police chief
Police Scotland's Highland & Islands divisional commander has thanked the public for complying with stay-at-home instruction
Following the introduction of the new law designed to slow the spread of coronavirus,Chief Superintendent George Macdonald extended his gratitude to communities and businesses across the region for their support so far during an unprecedented time.
He said: “High-visibility patrols have been in place right across the Highland and Islands since enforcement powers were introduced and it is clear that the vast majority of people are complying with the measures.
"Where our officers have encountered people outside, they’ve been able to engage with them or educate them on why it’s so important to follow the guidance from our public health experts in order to save lives.
"Whilst we obviously have powers to issue penalty notices, this is very much a last resort and thankfully to date my officers have not had to resort to this measure.
“As echoed by my colleagues across Scotland, we all recognise that the current situation is a significant change to the way people live their lives and we all need to adjust to that. The clear message is to stay at home, and by and large, people are doing that.”
He added: “We have been given extraordinary powers in an extraordinary situation, powers Police would not normally wish to have, but I’d like to thank the communities across the Highland and Islands for helping and supporting us. It is likely that these restrictions will continue and we need this support, understanding and self-discipline to continue.”