The Fiji Police Force will now arrest people found loitering during the curfew period.

Permanent Secretary for Information Lt. Colonel Neumi Leweni said many people in the central division are still moving about despite the announcement of the curfew.

He said Police will now take people in.       

The curfew is in place for the entire northern, eastern and central divisions.

Lt Colonel Leweni said the only persons allowed to travel are those directly involved in essential services but they need to secure official passes.

He said shop owners are also directed to close their businesses immediately.

Lt Colonel Leweni said the Government is taking more stringent measures to ensure that no life is lost unnecessarily.

The Ministry of Information now states that the curfew has been extended until 4am tomorrow.