PRANK PHONE CALLS

The Ministry of Health is aware that members of the public have been receiving prank calls from individuals impersonating employees of the Ministry, in particular pretending to be members of our contact tracing teams. These calls have caused undue stress and anxiety, and in some cases genuine fear.

We condemn these actions in the strongest possible way and we ask the individuals responsible to cease such activities immediately. We remind persons that under the Emergency Powers (COVID-19) (No.4) (Amendment No. 5) Regulations 2020 the spreading of such false information is an offence and persons are liable to a fine of $5,000 and/or three months imprisonment.

This matter will be reported to the Royal Turks & Caicos Islands Police Force for investigation to ascertain the individuals responsible and to take the most appropriate course of action in the public interest.