RIYADH — Minister of Islamic Affairs, Call and Guidance Sheikh Abdullatif Al-Sheikh advised the worshipers, who visit mosques to perform prayers, not be a reason for the closure of mosques. He warned in a statement that the laxity in compliance with the precautionary measures and preventive protocols, approved by the competent authorities, is a major reason for the spread of coronavirus. The minister called on everyone to cooperate with the authorities in their efforts to stem the spread of the pandemic. He urged the people to follow protocols so as to ensure the safety of all. It is noteworthy that the ministry has closed as many as 22 mosques on Tuesday and Wednesday in a number of regions of the Kingdom following reports of confirmed coronavirus cases among worshipers and mosque employees. The ministry called on worshipers to take all precautionary measures approved by the competent authorities such as wearing masks, bringing prayer rug, and keeping physical distance to protect them and other worshipers from infection. The ministry sought the cooperation of citizens and residents by reporting any violations or laxity in applying precautionary measures by contacting over the toll-free number 1933. The ministry said that the period of closure for sterilization will range between 24 hours and 48 hours. The ministry's branch in the regions and the department for mosques in the governorates will undertake the sterilization work through national companies specialized in sterilization and that is in coordination between the departments of mosques, health affairs, and mayoralties of regions.
