HELENSBURGH and Lomond’s top police officer says his officers will continue to “act decisively” to tackle “wilful” violations of the coronavirus restrictions.

Chief Superintendent John Paterson said this week that “encouraging people to take personal responsibility and do the right thing” would remain key to his officers’ approach, and encouraged people to comply with the government’s instructions to stay at home, except for essential reasons such as work or caring duties.

Mr Paterson, the divisional commander for Argyll and West Dunbartonshire, said: “We fully recognise the impact that current restrictions are having on people’s lives. However, these significant sacrifices are vital if we are to suppress the spread of coronavirus.

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“The Chief Constable has made it clear that our approach throughout the pandemic has not changed. Police Scotland officers will continue to support people to follow the regulations and encourage them to take personal responsibility.

“People should not leave their house or local authority area unless for an essential purpose. The best way to stay safe is to remain at home.

“We will continue to engage with our communities; explaining the regulations, encouraging people to take personal responsibility and do the right thing to keep themselves, their families and the wider public safe. Where officers encounter wilful breaches they will act decisively to enforce the law.

“The vast majority of people are complying with the rules, and I thank them for this. However, our determination and collective effort must continue if we are to beat this virus.”

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