Police stop cars in Plymouth to enforce coronavirus lockdown measures

Police are actively stopping motorists in Plymouth to enforce the latest coronavirus lockdown measures.

Officers have been seen pulling over drivers on Outland Road to find out if they are only making essential journeys.

It comes after Boris Johnson issued lockdown measures on Monday (March 23), ordering people across the country to remain in their homes unless they have a valid reason to go out.

He warned that police would issue fines to those found flouting the rules, and officers have since taken to the streets to ensure members of the public comply.

Officers pictured in Outland Road, Plymouth. Credit: Plymouth D Section Response / Twitter

In a tweet, officers from Devon and Cornwall Police warned drivers the restrictions are “now the norm”.

The four reasons you can now leave your home are:

  • shopping for basic necessities, as infrequently as possible

  • one form of exercise a day - for example a run, walk, or cycle - alone or with members of your household

  • any medical need, to provide care or to help a vulnerable person

  • travelling to and from work, but only where this is absolutely necessary and cannot be done from home

Officers were also spotted carrying out similar checks in Newquay, where passers-by reported seeing ‘roadblocks’ in place less than 24 hours after the Prime Minister’s announcement.

A spokesperson for Devon and Cornwall Police confirmed that officers will now be stopping people to ensure their journey is essential.

For the latest updates on coronavirus in the West Country, including case numbers, event cancellations and venue closures, click here.

Coronavirus: Everything you need to know