Until further notice, Makkah, Medina under 24-hour curfew

RIYADH/ISLAMABAD/NEW DELHI/KARACHI: Saudi Arabia Thursday decided to impose a 24-hour curfew in Makkah and Medina as part of the kingdom’s measures to contain the spread of the novel coronavirus, the official state agency reported.

The 24-hour curfew was announced by Interior Minister Abdul Aziz Bin Saud Al Saud.

The inhabitant of the two holiest cities have been advised to say their prayers at home and avoid venturing out unnecessarily, international media reports.

Authorities have also sealed off Riyadh and Jeddah, barring people from entering and exiting the cities as well as prohibiting movement between all provinces. Security has also been beefed up at all the holy places.

According to an official at the ministry of interior, adult residents will be allowed to leave their homes for urgent medical care and food supplies between 6am and 3pm. The decision, effective from Thursday and “until further