Bali Authorities Hand Out Free Masks And Meals Instead Of Fines

The COVID-19 Handling Task Force in Tegalbadeng Barat, Negara took a lighter approach while enforcing prevention protocols in the area. During an operation called ‘Yustisi Operation’ on Sunday morning (31/1), authorities from several different institutions, including police, military and officials of Tegalbadeng Village, found residents violating prevention protocols such as mask wearing. 

Rather than handing out fines, they gave guidance and educated them of the importance of health and safety. Residents were even given free face masks and packaged rice.

The team was led by Head of Negara Police Department, Kompol Sugriwo, who said that he wanted to try a softer approach while enforcing rules in his area.

“In the last meeting with several related institutions in Negara to discuss the implementation of prevention protocols, we agreed to eliminate the punishment for those who might violate the rules,” Sugriwo said.

He also committed to continue operations to reach residents in remote areas with rising cases. He said the influx of transmission is mainly due to large family gatherings. 

Sugriwo and his team handed out meals and masks to violators and all by-passers alike.

A similar action was seen in Sesetan Village, Denpasar on Sunday morning. The Head of Sesetan Village, Sri Karyawati, said that despite the partial lockdown in place, the number of COVID-19 cases in Sesetan continues to surge.

In order to minimize the risk of transmission, Karyawati initiated a program to distribute free meals and masks while educating residents to be more aware of health and safety.

The authority provided at least 60 packages of meals during the operation. “We hope we can help more people get access to food during these hard times.” said I Gede Hendra Tirtana from Sesetan.