Nighttime curfew imposed in Los Angeles fire areas

A nighttime curfew has been imposed in disaster areas hit by devastating fires that have ruined large parts of Los Angeles, county sheriff Robert Luna said Friday.

The rule, which will be in effect between 6 pm and 6 am in the Pacific Palisades and Eaton fire areas, comes as fears of looting grow, with some residents organizing street patrols and keeping armed watch over their own houses.

Luna said anyone who breaks the curfew could be jailed. "This curfew will be strictly enforced and is being taken to enhance public safety, protect property and prevent any burglaries or looting in the area that the residents have evacuated", he told a press conference.