Jamaican authorities are launching a probe into Usain Bolt’s 34th birthday celebration after the Olympic champion announced that he had tested positive for COVID-19.
Prime Minister Andrew Holness revealed the news during a virtual press conference.
“There are a number of pictures and videos that have been circulating of parties with no mask-wearing, no social distancing, etc… There is also an activity relating to Usain Bolt. Now, these matters are all being thoroughly investigated and the police will give a report on the matter in the near future,” said Holness.
Jamaica has been working hard to combat the virus, imposing strict regulations country-wide to contain COVID-19.
Since March, more than 1,000 Jamaicans have been charged and prosecuted under the Disaster Risk Management Act regarding those regulations.
“The public needs to know that we’re serious about this and we are prosecuting persons. We intend to increase significantly the level of enforcement and prosecution,” Holness asserted.
A surprise party was held for Bolt on Friday. Guests shared images in which dozens of friends surrounded him amid very little social distancing and no masks.
“I’m just waking up, and like everybody else I checked social media which is saying I am confirmed to have Covid-19. I did a test on Saturday to leave because I work. I am trying to be responsible so I am going to stay in and stay here for my friends,” Bolt said via his social media pages.
The country has recorded three COVID-19 related deaths and 120 new cases in the last 24 hours. There are currently 801 active cases under observation on the island.
