Christian Leader in Xinjiang Province Arrested

China Aid Association
(Kashi, Xinjiang–Jan. 14, 2007) CAA has learned that a House Church leader in Kashi, Xinjiang Uygur Autonomous Region was secretly detained on January 12. According to an eyewitness, Mr. Ahlimujiang Yimiti was taken away from his home by State Security Bureau agents for an accused ” national security issue.”. His wife was also taken from her home for interrogation in the evening of the same day. Government officials continue to persecute House Church members and Christians in Xinjiang Pronvince, as was the case in December of 2007, in which Wusimanyaming, a Christian employee of Xinjiang Pacific Agricultural Resources Development Company, Ltd, was detained and sentenced to 10-15 years in Federal prison, for allegedly revealing State secrets.  The charges were a cover however, as the real reason for his arrest stemed from his association with the owner of the company, an American and outspoken Christian. Thanks to advocacy efforts from China Aid and international pressure drawn by the case, the charges were reduced to 2 years of reeducation through labor, in a camp. More details concerning the detention of Mr. Ahlimujiang Yimiti and his wife will be released soon.
To view the detention notice for Ahlimujiang Yimiti:[click here] (Uyger)
© Issued by CAA on January 14, 2008