KUCHING: Twenty-five individuals were slapped with compounds for violating Covid-19 prevention standard operating procedures (SOPs).

They had been celebrating the Merdeka countdown at various locations around the city.

Kuching OCPD ACP Ahsmon Bajah said the SOP floaters consisted of 14 men and 11 women aged between 22 and 49.

“All 25 committed the offence of being in a public area beyond the stipulated time period without physical distancing.

“The total value of the compound imposed on all individuals is RM37,500,” he said on Wednesday (Sept 1).

ACP Ahsmon said the compounds were issued during Ops Covid-19 that was carried out between 8pm and 1am on Aug 30.

He said teams conducted inspections in Jalan Tan Sri Ong Kee Hui and Jalan Hup Kee.

“The operation was carried out by a team consisting of three officers and 12 rank-and-file personnel.

“The public are advised to abide by SOP guidelines and police will continue to take action against flouters.”