COVID-19: Groom interrogated over Saudi wedding gathering
Gatherings of over 50 persons still banned in Saudi Arabia as precautionary measure
Cairo: Saudi security forces have opened investigations into the case of with a groom and an operator of a wedding hall in the south-western region of Asir over a large gathering in the place in violation of rules set to combat the novel coronavirus, Saudi online newspaper Sabq reported Saturday.
Police in Asir's Governorate of Mahayal Friday night raided a big gathering at the hall after dozens of cars were spotted outside the location. The number of those attending the event was higher than the 50-person limit set by authorities as part of precautions against the spread of the virus.
Upon seeing police, attendees left the place, according to the report.
Large gatherings, breaching anti-coronavirus measures, are punishable by up to SR50,000 that doubles on repetition.
Violating businesses could face a three-month shutdown.
The Health Ministry Friday confirmed 542 new cases of COVID-19 in Asir, including 36 in Mahayal.
Last week,Saudi authorities fully lifted a months-long curfew across the country and allowed all economic activities to resume according to a phased plan for returning to normal life.
However, restrictions on international air travel, the Umrah journeys and gatherings of over 50 persons remain in place as part of measures to stem COVID-19.