| James Kon |
THE Law Enforcement Unit of Bandar Seri Begawan (BSB) Municipal Department, from January to May 22, has issued 110 compound fines (72 individuals and 38 companies) in areas under its jurisdiction for violation of Minor Offences Act Chapter 30 of Section 12 (1) which covers storing or disposing of any items including cigarette butts in public places.
The number of fines went up from the 57 cases recorded in 2017 and is expected to pass the 117 cases recorded in 2016.
According to the Law Enforcement Unit of BSB Municipal Department, basic public awareness on hygiene and cleanliness is still lacking especially after or during national events where many people litter water bottles and food packets.
The department urged the public to respect and adhere to government laws and maintain a clean image in line with Islamic teachings.
It stressed the importance of inculcating awareness on hygiene and cleanliness at a young age. It advised companies and building owners to maintain cleanliness. It also reminded contractors conducting renovation to maintain a clean environment by disposing waste properly.
The public is reminded to dispose of unwanted items at allocated bins, while companies should maintain standards of hygiene and comply with the regulations under the Minor Offences Act.
The Law Enforcement Unit will continue to conduct inspections in areas under the jurisdiction of the BSB Municipal Department.
Meanwhile, under Minor Offences Act Chapter 30 of Section 12 (1), if the offender fails to settle the compound fine, the matter will be referred to court. For first-time offenders, the penalty is a fine of BND1,000 or a month’s imprisonment. For repeat offenders, the punishment is a BND3,000 fine, or an imprisonment of not more than three months.
