"In view of the worrying increase in COVID-19 cases, measures have been taken to curb the spread of the pandemic at the level of the municipality and to safeguard the health of citizens", the committee said in a press release.

These measures include the ban on meetings and gatherings in all public spaces for 15 renewable days, as well as the closure of nearby sites and public gardens for the same period.

The weekly markets in the towns of Taroudant and Ait Aiaaza will also be closed until November 01, 2020.

Anyone who violates these measures and precautions will be subject to legal proceedings, in accordance with the provisions of the law on the state of health emergency, the statement said.

The local authorities urge citizens to respect the aforementioned measures, as well as the wearing of masks, physical distancing and safety instructions.