What does Ezekiel 8:12 mean?

God said, 'Son of man, do you see what Israel's elders are doing in secret, each in his own private shrine? They say, "The Lord can't see us; he's left the country."' Ezekiel 8:12 - Modern Text Bible

(The leaders think God isn't watching and has abandoned them, so they feel free to do whatever they want in secret.)