Navajo Nation considers curfew a success

WINDOW ROCK, Ariz. – In a single weekend, the Navajo Police Department issued over 115 criminal nuisance citations for violations of the Navajo Public Health Emergency Order No. 2020-05.

The curfew began April 10 at 8 pm and ended April 13 at 5 am. The purpose of the curfew was to restrict the movement of people on the Navajo Nation and minimize the spread of COVID-19 in communities.

The overall success of the operation was evident in the limited number of travelers on the roadways, with the exception of essential employees who provided proper documentation.

“The enforcement was successful in that we saw a decline in the number of people traveling during the weekend. An operation of this capacity takes a lot of planning and coordination and our districts did a great job in enforcement efforts. In addition, the success is also credited to the public who complied and stayed home.” Chief Phillip Francisco said. “I also want to remind the public that the stay at home order and daily curfew orders remain in effect and we ask the public to continue to adhere to those orders.”

The Navajo Nation Public Health Emergency Order No. 2020-004, commonly known as the “Stay at Home” and “Curfew Order” remains active until further notice, with daily curfew hours from 8 pm to 5 am.  The Navajo Police Department will continue conducting public service announcement checkpoints to educate and promote public awareness.