Humberside's Police and Crime Commissioner warns of tough penalties for ignoring lockdown

Keith Hunter - observe the lockdown warning.

HUMBERSIDE'S Police and Crime Commissioner Keith Hunter says police forces now have the power to give out on-the-spot fines of £30 to those caught outside their homes in groups of more than two people or for meeting without good reason.

He also thinks tougher penalties should be imposed on those committing crime during the Coronavirus lockdown.

The Government ruled on Monday that the only reason for people to be out of their homes was to fetch medicine or essential shopping or for exercise. People may also travel to and from work, but only if they cannot work from home.

Humberside Police has adopted a tough approach by setting up checkpoints to question motorists using certain routes.

In North East Lincolnshire police have urged people to comply with the emergency rules through persuasion and making people aware they cannot be in groups.

The Police and Crime Commissioner said people risked having a criminal record if they did not comply or pay the fines imposed.