in line with the directives of the Executive Committee, chaired by His Royal Highness Prince Salman bin Hamad Al Khalifa, Crown Prince, Deputy Supreme Commander and First Deputy Premier, Interior Minister General Shaikh Rashid bin Abdullah Al Khalifa issued today  order No. 53 of 2020 banning gathering in public places. 
 
The move which is part of the precautionary measures to combat the novel coronavirus (COVID-19) coronavirus, prohibits gatherings of more than five individuals on roads, yards, beaches, parks and other public places. 
 
Violators will face  a penalty stated in article 25 of the decree-law 5 of 1990 of civil defence of up to three years jail term or/and fined up to BD5000 .
 
The Interior Ministry called upon citizens and residents to follow the gathering ban measures to prevent the spreading of the virus for general safety. Legal steps will be taken against violators.