MANAMA — Bahrain's health ministry has referred four restaurants and cafés to the competent legal authorities for flouting the mandatory precautionary measures, the Bahrain News Agency reported on Monday.

During inspection visits to 70 restaurants and cafes on Sunday, the health ministry’s inspectors stressed the need to fully comply with the precautionary measures recommended by the country's National Medical Taskforce, including mainly the closure of those outlets except for delivery and takeaway services.

The health ministry said that the restaurants and cafes facing legal acting had flouted the procedures and terms stipulated in the ministerial decision on mandatory health protocols at restaurants and cafes to curb COVID-19 infections.

The restaurants and cafes and which were found in breach of the mandatory precautionary measures were referred to competent legal authorities.

Owners of outlets with minor violations were warned to address their irregularities immediately in compliance with the mandatory precautionary measures.

The Public Health Directorate at Bahrain's health ministry called on everyone to continue their commitment and spirit of high responsibility and to immediately report any violations they may spot. — SG