Taiwan inmates volunteer to join the battle against coronavirus

Taipei prison has put together some 52,000 face masks since mid-February

Last updated: March 11, 2020 | 09:37

Compiled by Christian Borbon, Digital Content Producer and Inputs from AFP

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Behind the barbed wire-topped fences of Taipei Prison, a small group of inmates are hunched over clacking sewing machines, working overtime to churn out face masks and help ward off the new coronavirus.

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Usually the men would be making prison uniforms in the bright-lit sewing factory in the city of Taoyuan.

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But after the coronavirus spread to Taiwan they switched to making masks, putting together some 52,000 face coverings since mid-February.

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The inmates - who have volunteered for the job - work quickly with machines they have clearly come to know well.

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After stitching the fabric with the sewing machines, they carefully trim the masks with small scissors before ironing and packaging them.

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Taiwan's prisons routinely employ prisoners to make products from food to garments and soaps.

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The programmes are designed to teach inmates practical skills as well as raise funds for victim compensation and the improvement of facilities.

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Mask-clad inmates operate sewing machines as they make facemasks at the Taipei Prison in Taoyuan City, northern Taiwan.

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Correctional facilities across Taiwan are taking part in the new scheme to manufacture cloth face masks and face mask protectors to supply their staff and the public.

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