Duque Decrees Mandatory Quarantine Starting March 24
Colombia
20 marzo 2020

On March 20, Colombian President Iván Duque decreed a compulsory quarantine for the entire country starting March 24, as part of the emergency measures adopted in order to deal with the spread of COVID-19 in the country. The quarantine guidelines will be presented between Sunday and Monday and include mechanisms to guarantee the supply of essential items to Colombian families.  The quarantine will last until April 13.

“It has been a slow and structured decision, taken by experts, to protect the most vulnerable,” said the president. Together with the General Attorney of the Nation, Francisco Barbosa, Duque announced that there will be sanctions for those speculating or hoarding basic products during this period of mandatory isolation.

“We are going to guarantee supply chains. The Superintendency of Industry and Commerce will work hand in hand with the General Attorney’s Office to sanction those who speculate or hoard goods or articles that should be accessible to all citizens in the face of this pandemic,” stressed the president.

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