Chief Superintendent Raj Kohli

THE borough’s chief of police has again urged people to stay inside and only go out if absolutely necessary.

Chief Superintendent Raj Kohli repeated his plea after a busy bank holiday weekend when groups of people from multiple households were seen in parks.

He said lockdown was still in place despite the easing of some restrictions and it remained important to follow the government’s guidelines to help avoid a second spike of Covid-19.

The official advice changed from “Stay At Home” to “Stay Alert” a fortnight ago amid widespread criticism the message is confusing.

“This is uncharted territory so it was always going to take time for people to adjust to the new phase, but meeting your mates is not part of the deal,” said Chief Supt Kohli.

“I think people believe they are following the new guidelines but in reality they are not. The key messages are still about essential journeys, so if you don’t need to be out then don’t be.”

A small number of fines have been issued since the lockdown rules changed when fines were increased from £60 to £100, revealed officers.

Police in Camden said enforcement remains the last resort.