BEIJING — China will punish anyone intercepting passengers or vehicles with unauthorized roadblocks or checkpoints, the Ministry of Public Security said on Jan 28.

Highlighting the prevention and control of novel coronavirus epidemic being the top priority, the ministry ordered all public security authorities to activate emergency response mechanism, take concerted efforts with health authorities and safeguard social stability.

Their work includes epidemic monitoring, potential carrier screening, early warning, hospitalization of infected people, as well as the isolation of suspected patients and their close contacts, the ministry said.

They should also maintain traffic order in stations, ports, terminals, and airports and ensure the safe and fast passage of vehicles used in the epidemic prevention and control, the ministry said.

The ministry also vowed to crack down on rumor-mongering, profiteering, manufacturing, and selling of fake drugs, medical instruments, and supplies, as well as shipping or trading of rare or endangered animals.