Some individuals have been arrested by a Joint Security Taskforce deployed to enforce the President’s ban on all social gatherings.

The culprits were picked up at two different mosques in Tamale for congregating for prayers flaunting President Akufo-Addo's directive as part of measures to fight the coronavirus in the country.

Addressing the media after the exercise, the Northern Region Minister Salifu Saeed said although some people got away, it was a fruitful exercise.

He said the team would continue to educate the people on the Covid-19 pandemic but will also use minimal force to ensure the directive is adhered to.

"We want to send a very clear warning that we are going to marry the sensitization of the public together with some minimal force on people who will not want to comply.

“Today we went through the busy part of Tamale, the shops, chop bars, pharmacies who didn't provide the basic handwashing places were closed down" he indicated.

Mr Saeed said the exercise would intensify tomorrow considering that Sundays are days slated for weddings and funerals in the area.

He cautioned the people that any congregation that would exceed the required 25 number would have the people arrested.

“We are going to sustain this exercise and ensure that people comply with this directive," he said

The Northern Regional Minister said the issue of Covid-19 has gone beyond a health issue to become a security matter as well.

He further assured residents that although the Greater Accra Region and Kumasi are currently under lockdown his outfit will ensure that the region does not record a case.