Indonesians Face Caning For Crimes Under Aceh's Islamic Law

BANDA ACEH, INDONESIA - MARCH 22: A couple sit as they enjoy their time at the beach which goes against the prevailing sharia law in Aceh on March 22, 2017 in Banda Aceh, Indonesia. Indonesia's Aceh Province, on the northern tip of Sumatra island, is among the only place in the Muslim-majority country which implements the strict version of Sharia Law. Public canings take place regularly in Aceh for a range of offenses from adultery to homosexuality to selling alcohol, while women are required to dress modestly and Shariah police officers patrol the streets and conduct raids to hunt for immoral activities. More than 90 per cent of the 255 million people who live in Indonesia describe themselves as Muslim, but the vast majority practice a moderate form. According to reports, the Shariah Law in Aceh began in 2001, after receiving authorization from Indonesia's central government, which was intent on calming separatist sentiment in the conservative region while today. (Photo by Ulet Ifansasti/Getty Images)