A man has been arrested for failing to comply with COVID-19 travel restrictions. Photo: File.
Police in Canberra have made their first arrest of a person who has arrived in the ACT from Victoria without the appropriate exemption.
The 41-year-old man was arrested at a location in Parkes at about 11:30 am yesterday (16 July) and was charged with failing to comply with COVID-19 health directions in the ACT.
The man is alleged to have travelled to the ACT from Victoria on Wednesday (15 July) and did not have an exemption from the ACT Chief Health Officer to enter the ACT.
He has been charged with failing to comply with a Public Health Direction under Section 120(4) of the Public Health Act 1997.
ACT Policing has made several arrests to ensure community safety during the COVID-19 response, but this is the first offence under the Public Health Act 1997.
Commander of the ACT Policing COVID-19 Taskforce, Detective Superintendent Jason Kennedy, said the man was cooperative when taken into custody.
“We take the safety of the Canberra community seriously, especially those who may be at higher risk of health complications,” Detective Superintendent Kennedy said.
“ACT Policing had serious concerns about the significant health risks this particular individual posed to our community by not complying with the health directions.
“ACT Policing will continue to take all necessary action to prevent the spread of COVID-19.”
The man is expected to appear before the ACT Magistrates Court this afternoon where bail will be opposed.
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