At an October news conference, police in the self-declared autonomous region of Somaliland announced that a Christian couple had been arrested for being “apostates and evangelists spreading Christianity.” On 21 September, the two were taken from their home in Hargeisa where police also found Christian literature in their possession.
The police spokesperson, Faisal His Elmi, stated that the arrest came from an anonymous tip. He also threatened that “whoever dares to spread Christianity in this region should be fully aware that they won’t escape the hand of the law enforcement officers and that the spread of Christianity will not be allowed and is considered blasphemy.” He encouraged others to report Christians who share their faith.
The detained couple, who are the parents of three children, will face trial by a regional court. Their arrests and detentions have generated fear among other believers in the area, causing many of them to flee for safety. A safe house sponsored by VOM has been overwhelmed with believers seeking temporary refuge.
Sources: Middle East Concern, Geeska Afrika Online, The Voice of the Martyrs USA
- Pray that the presence of God will be sensed by this couple and their children, reminding them to trust in Him.
- Pray the other Somali believers who have fled the area in search of safety be greatly encouraged and strengthened by God’s Word and each other.
- Pray for church leaders in this highly restricted nation, who are faithfully serving the Lord and His people.
Post your prayer in the comments below.
I pray that God the Father gives His Son and His Spirit to that Land.
Amen Amen and Amen to Brother Stewart’s prayer.
Indeed and thank the Lord for His faithfulness to His own and His Gospel global mission powered by His Holy Spirit. Have mercy O Lord!
O Lord God, who has made the heavens and the earth, we pray for the peoples and leaders of Somaliland and especially for those involved in this situation concerning our Christian brother and sister and their children. We ask for your hand to bring comfort and relief and protection and safety to the family and all other believers and that they may remain firm in their resolve to share the Gospel of grace even in this threatening environment. Help us to support them in our prayers and offerings and give us prayerful, committed and sacrificial hearts to uphold them and bring glory to you. have mercy Lord, have mercy!