By A Correspondent- The government has announced police officers deployment in churches to vet Covid-19 vaccination certificates from worshippers.

The shocking announcement came after the government said churches could reopen on condition their members have taken both doses of Covid-19 vaccines while abiding by other existing coronavirus protocols.

Authorities ordered the closure of churches in June this year following a spike in Covid-19 cases.

National police spokesperson Paul Nyathi, told the state media that churches should comply with the vaccination order announced by Cabinet last week.

“Churches are implored to strictly comply with the vaccination directive for congregants as stipulated by Cabinet last week. The Zimbabwe Republic Police (ZRP) will assist health officials in ensuring compliance and arresting anyone defying the safety protocols. Police will also take action against those who might try to take advantage of the directive and produce fake vaccination certificates,” said Nyathi.

Church leaders last week condemned the directive and said that it was difficult for them to turn away followers.

-State media