A CITIZEN OF NORTH KOREA WAS SHOT FOR A VIOLATION OF QUARANTINE REGIME

Asian sources reported the public execution of a North Korean citizen. The reason is the violation of restrictive measures introduced due to the spread of coronavirus.

The report said the North Korean authorities sentenced a man to public execution by shooting in order to intimidate the rest of the residents. It took place in the border area, as people living there are often in contact with "the other side", including for smuggling.

The executed man was about 50 years old and was accused of smuggling across the Chinese border, which was closed in 2020.

During the pandemic, trade between North Korea and China fell by 75%. At the usual time, China is the main partner and sponsor of the DPRK. Since the outbreak of the pandemic, Korea has stepped up its border guards, fearing that smugglers might bring the virus.

According to the official statements from North Korea, there is not a single case of coronavirus in the country. However, earlier the media, citing knowledgeable officials from South Korea, reported that the capital of the DPRK - Pyongyang - was closed. What is more, the production of fish and salt is allegedly suspended in the country, as the authorities fear the contamination of sea water with covid.

Several executions were reported earlier. According to sources, Kim Jong-un sentenced to death a customs officer who allowed illegal goods from abroad, and an exchange office employee who was allegedly accused of the involvement in the rate increase.