New Zealand to Deport Foreigners Who Fail to Comply with Self-Quarantine Measures

[Image source=Yonhap News]

[Asia Economy Reporter Hyunwoo Lee] The New Zealand government has decided to deport foreigners who refuse to comply with self-quarantine measures aimed at preventing the spread of the novel coronavirus (COVID-19). New Zealand authorities have stated that those who refuse to leave the country will be arrested under immigration law.

According to foreign media including the Associated Press, on the 17th, Immigration New Zealand (INZ) announced that two travelers who entered from Southeast Asia the previous day were detained and forcibly quarantined for failing to comply with the self-quarantine measures. INZ plans to deport these individuals.

Stephen Vaughan, Director of INZ, said, "Their actions are highly irresponsible and put New Zealanders at risk, which is absolutely unacceptable," adding, "That is precisely why they must be deported." He further emphasized, "If they do not leave voluntarily after forced quarantine, they will be arrested and detained under immigration law. In that case, not only will they be barred from re-entering New Zealand for a certain period, but traveling to other countries may also become difficult."

Earlier, the New Zealand government announced a new travel regulation requiring all arrivals to self-quarantine for 14 days starting from the 16th. Prime Minister Jacinda Ardern held a press conference stating that foreign tourists who do not comply with the self-quarantine policy may be forcibly quarantined or deported.

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