Curfew from tonight across all of French Polynesia

PAPEETE, Mar 28, 2020, RNZ. A curfew will come into force in French Polynesia tonight in the latest measure to stem the spread of Covid-19. The French High Commissioner Dominique Sorain and the French Polynesian president jointly announced that it would come into force at 8pm and last until 5am, Radio New Zealand reported.

The curfew applies to all islands and will be in place until 15 April.

Anyone breaching the curfew will be fined at least $US150 ($NZ248) and risks one year in prison.

The curfew was foreshadowed last weekend when movements were restricted and the public was warned of a possible complete lockdown.

Partying in defiance of the meeting ban prompted the authorities three days ago to ban the sale of alcohol until 5 April.

Today’s announcement also tightens travel restrictions already in force between Tahiti and Moorea, which are the two islands sharing the confirmed 30 Covid-19 cases.

Travel between the southern and northern part of Tahiti will also be subject to tighter controls to curb the risk of further transmission.

There will be also closer scrutiny of those in self-isolation after returning from overseas.

Flights have been gradually cut and before the complete suspension, one last plane will leave Tahiti tomorrow.

About 3400 people have been flown out in the past week, but according to local television, 50 travellers are stuck.

Plans are being drawn up to secure a skeleton air service for freight and possible medical evacuation to France.