Another video shows patrol officers using the vehicle's public address speakers to clear public spaces.

Police in the country are using drones and security patrols to disseminate the critical message of avoiding public spaces, to fight the spread of Covid-19. A video posted by the Sharjah Police on their social media channels shows drones being used to relay officers' instructions to residents to stay home and avoid stepping out unless absolutely necessary.

Another video shows patrol officers using the vehicle's public address speakers to clear public spaces.

The messages in Arabic, English and Urdu urged people to avoid doing anything that jeopardises their life and public health. The police asked the residents to stay home, avoid crowded places and protect themselves and their families.

"You are important, you are part of a society that wants you to have a healthy and safe life. The message for today is to stay home," the public address said.

Residents in various parts of Dubai, too, reported seeing police patrols do the same.

The Sharjah Police have deployed 60 patrols to disperse gatherings, particularly in Rolla and Clock Tower squares.

A top police official said the force is using advanced equipment to prevent gatherings. "The operation room is equipped with highly advanced zooming cameras linked to all parts of the city to monitor the situation," he said.

reporters@khaleejtimes.com