It's sad that senior management would handle lay offs this way. They don't seem to recognize that people talk and information leaks out. They've completely lost control of the conversation and fostered an atmosphere of dread that will have an impact long after the last person walks out the door.
No one is so naive to question why companies lay off staff and close offices, but rip the damned band aid off already and have a bit more respect for your workforce.
The OP ( @W8ljdCf-xna ) couldn’t have said it better. If layoffs have to be done, they should be done with dignity and with respect towards the workers.