Indonesia isn't playing around when it comes to dealing with anti-maskers and those refusing to follow pandemic protocols and mandates. Some have been forced to dig graves or sit in coffins.
Suyono, head of the Cerme district in East Java said, "There are only three available gravediggers at the moment, so I thought I might as well put these people to work with them." He ordered eight anti-maskers to dig graves for COVID-19 victims. The offenders worked in pairs at a public cemetery in Ngabetan village. One would dig the grave while the other would lay boards at the bottom to support the body. They didn't take part in actual burials.
"Hopefully this can create a deterrent effect," Suyono says, noting cases are rising in the area. Anyone found violating the country's COVID-19 health protocols, including mandatory face masks in public, could face fines or community service. Other offenders have been forced to clean open sewers or sit in a hearse with a casket to reflect on their actions. Some were forced to lie in an actual casket.
Source: CBS42 Image © 2020 GettyImages