The National Disaster Management Agency (NDMA) has issued a stern warning against “unscrupulous” individuals spreading misleading information about coronavirus: to stop or face a fine or imprisonment.

A statement issued by the government body said: “The Agency wishes to inform the general public to desist from such acts as it contravenes Section 125 of the NDMA Act of 2008.”

According to the Agency, “it has been brought to the attention of the National Disaster Management Agency, that certain unscrupulous individuals are publishing misleading and in some cases unfounded information relating to the COVID-19 virus (coronavirus).

“A person  who without lawful authority, makes or circulates a false alarm or warn as to a threatening disaster situation or disaster or it severity or magnitude, leading to panic commits an offence and is liable for five hundred thousands dalasis (D500,000) or imprisonment for a term not exceeding five years, or to both the five years and imprisonment,” the statement added.

Reporting by Adama Makasuba