(Wenzhou, Zhejiang Province — August 28, 2025) In an environment of increasingly tightened government control over religious activities in China, a preacher in Zhejiang Province has been detained on suspicion of “illegal business operations,” his case drawing concern from the outside world.
Preacher Detained Over Bible Audio Players
Preacher Li Yongfeng has been held at Wenzhou Pingyang Detention Center since June 26. Authorities have not released the specifics of the accusation. However, according to his family, the case stems from his involvement in the non-profit sale of Bible audio players, an act deemed illegal in China. The publication and distribution of the Bible is strictly monopolized by the state, and any unapproved sale or act of distribution may be prosecuted as illegal business operations.
Li Yongfeng, together with Pastor Huang Yizi from Pingyang, Wenzhou, has been implicated in such charges. Authorities classify tools purely for the spreading of faith as criminal offenses. Such cases have been misused as instruments to suppress religious figures and activities.
Health Concerns Inside Detention
On Wednesday, Li’s wife, Du Xiaoxi, shared an update on his condition in the detention center through a prayer bulletin. She said that Li Yongfeng’s lawyer recently visited him and conveyed that his current physical condition is “fairly good,” but ongoing concerns about his health remain.
“His blood sugar level is 7.4, and he must take medication daily,” Du stated in the bulletin, adding that his previous hemorrhoid surgery has not fully healed and there is still bleeding. His left thumb, which was also injured in an accident, remains painful and cannot bend properly. Despite submitting medical requests, it was reported that the detention center has not responded.
Bible Requests Repeatedly Denied
Du further revealed that her husband has repeatedly expressed his wish for a Bible, “but the detention center’s front desk has consistently refused to accept it,” she said.
Before his arrest, Li Yongfeng had just undergone colorectal surgery and was still in recovery at the hospital. Du stated that police forcibly removed him from the hospital without medical clearance.
Faith Remains Strong Despite Persecution
Despite his detention, Li Yongfeng is said to remain firm in his faith. In detention, he has reflected on his personal relationships with his family, admitting that while doing his work and pastoral care in the past, he had “not cared enough for those around him,” especially feeling indebted toward his wife and children. He expressed his wish to make up for these shortcomings in the future and to show “deeper care for the souls of those around him.”
He has also composed several hymns to express his trust in and gratitude toward God.
Du Xiaoxi concluded her bulletin with Psalm 20:9:
“Lord, give victory to the king! Answer us when we call!”
ChinaAid relayed the report from Kingdom Prayer Network, noting that the case is still under investigation.