Romania increases fines for breaking lockdown rules

inquam-photo-bucuresti-covid19-verificare-masuri-ordonanta-militara-3-25-mar-2020-134930.jpg, George Calin
Inquam Photos/ George Călin

New hefty fines and other punitive measures for people who break lockdown rules have come into force as Romanian authorities battle to halt the spread of the coronavirus.

As of midnight, individuals who violate the lockdown rules face fines of up to 20,000 lei, about 4,150 euros, four times the initial amount.

Companies can now be fined a minimum of 10,000 lei, up from 1,000 lei, and a maximum of 70,000 lei, the same amount as before.  

Authorities can also confiscate goods which led to the fine, or prevent the access of goods. They can also temporarily suspend a company’s activity or works that have been carried out.

The new measures come as authorities step up measures in their fight against the growing virus epidemic.

Romania reported 2,738 infections on Thursday, and 115 fatalities, a record spike of  deaths in one day. Most of the people who died are over 60 and have existing health conditions.

In the last 24 hours, authorities have fined 7,385 people who failed to respect rules limiting people’s movements. Authorities fined people 10.6 million lei.

Romania has been under a state of emergency since March 16. Last week, President Klaus Iohannis placed the country under a strict lockdown on Wednesday in response to the growing crisis.

Under the lockdown, people are only allowed to go out for work, buying necessary food, medical emergencies and some exercise. People need to complete and carry a signed form with them.

Police, the Gendarmerie, or riot police and the Army are on the streets to ensure compliance.

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