Authorities of the central province of Ha Tinh have fined seven local Catholic priests for organising religious ceremonies amid the on-going Covid-19 pandemic.
The fine is VND5-7 million (USD217.39-304.3).
The ceremonies which took place in the districts of Duc Tho, Huong Khe, Can Loc and Thach Ha on April 4-5, attracted hundreds of local participants.
The event in Can Loc alone saw the participation of nearly 400 people.
The seven priests are Peter Trần Phúc Trì, Anthony Nguyễn Xuân Hồng, Peter Trần Đình Lai, Peter Trần Phúc Cai, Joseph Trần Văn Phúc, Anthony Nguyễn Văn Hoàng and Paul Nguyễn Xuân Hóa.
Meanwhile, another priest has been also criticised for overstepping the regulation.
The priests admitted to the offence and pledged not to repeat the situation.
Ha Tinh is among 12 cities and provinces conform to the further social distancing following the prime minister’s order. These localities face high risk of Covid-19 infections.
The social distancing period will last until April 22 or 30, or even longer depending on specific conditions.
Source: dtinews.vn (17/4)
