The Scotland Neck Police Department said this afternoon it will continue its 9 p.m. through 6 a.m. curfew through the weekend.

The announcement came via the department’s Facebook page and is linked to a series of shootings that occurred in the town.

Mayor Eddie Braxton had said Monday he expected the curfew to be lifted Thursday but the department’s post today said, “An official announcement will be made by the town of Scotland Neck concerning the curfew.”

The post said, “A curfew does not stop crime or shootings, but it does allow officers and deputies working the ability to focus on areas without interference from the general public and its keeps members of the public a little bit more safe during these troubling times.”

The department said those who have business or work-related travel during the curfew times may be stopped by law enforcement and will be required to show proof of employment and verification of that nature. 

“We understand that some of you have emergency situations as well. The issue is the joyriding and criminal mischief. This will not be tolerated under a state of emergency curfew.” 

The police department said it is working to resolve numerous cases and arrests are pending and encourages the public to call 911 when they hear or see criminal activity.