JP/Zul Trio Anggono

July 4, p3

A foreign visitor stands trial in Denpasar, Bali, on Friday for taking puffs in a non-smoking area of Ngurah Rai International Airport. Anyone convicted of breaching the rule is fined Rp 50,000 (US$4).

Your comments:

It'€™s okay if this guy gets fined for puffing in a non-smoking area '€” it is common practice. But then again this ad-hoc trial with a dressed-up judge, lawyers, witnesses, a policeman making a video (for the archives?) is completely over the top for a petty Rp 50,000 fine.

Can you imagine the same happening for any fine motorists may need to pay for ignoring traffic rules and being caught in the act? This is a childish spectacle.

And in particular, as others have already pointed out, it seems to specifically target foreigners. I wonder though if he received an additional fine for appearing in court wearing shorts and flip-flops.

Gordon

Is there a similar instantaneous justice system for members of the elite (police, military, House, ministers etc) who are caught being corrupt?

Terry McAsee

Let us give credit where credit is due. Finally the Indonesian police seems to be enforcing the law albeit rather comically and selectively.

Notice the giggling guy on the left hand side of the judge while the policeman in the background takes some trophy pictures to be shared among his friends on Facebook.

And the big no smoking sign at back of the panel of the judge just sums up the seriousness of this legal proceeding.

I count at least 10 officials in this photo. The man has only himself to blame.

Really, he should have thoroughly researched the non-smoking areas in Bali before visiting the island, although enclosed areas such as airports are generally designated as non-smoking areas but not necessary in Indonesia, and even if it is the law it is generally not enforced unless you are a foreigner.

Abu-Abu

I agree with paying fines for committing crimes, as long as the fines are equal and equally enforced.

It certainly seems that Indonesia wants all expats out of the country.

Willo

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