Police in Dowa have arrested 18 shop owners for allegedly opening shops outside permitted hours contrary to Covid-19 rules and regulations.

The 18 were arrested at Dowa Boma, Imfa Yatonse and Msakambewa Trading Centres in Dowa District.

The arrest comes as government put on measures to stop the further spread of Covid-19 pandemic.

A team of police officers were on the ground to make sure that people are adhering to the rules and regulations whereby 6 were arrested at Dowa Boma, 3 at Kamtepa, 5 at Imfa Yatonse and 4 at Msakambewa Trading Centre, who were found selling in their shops outside permitted hours.

The suspects will appear before court soon to answer charges of failing to comply with Covid-19 rules and regulations.