Another church attacked by Burmese army in Chin State
Despite multiple church leaders’ repeated calls asking the Burmese Army (Tatmadaw) to stop attacking places of worship, the Tatmadaw continues to target churches as it seeks to destroy the town of Thantlang in Christian-majority Chin state.
According to local media, St. Nicholas Catholic Church, located in the heavily attacked Thantlang, was burned down by the Tatmadaw on the 27th of November.
Information shared by local watchdog Chin Human Rights Organization (CHRO) reveals that the junta set fire to many houses in Thantlang on the 26th of November, keeping them burning for three days as soldiers continued arson attacks. The nearby St. Nicholas Church was reportedly among dozens of structures to be destroyed by the fire. Just a few days ago, at least 49 buildings, including Thantlang Centenary Baptist Church were also torched by the Tatmadaw.
UCA News reports that predominantly Christian Chin state has been at the forefront of resistance to the junta and has witnessed fierce attacks by the military including airstrikes, heavy artillery, and indiscriminate attacks on civilians. Hundreds have been arbitrarily detained and dozens killed.
The ongoing military crackdown has sent more than 10,000 residents of Thantlang to neighboring towns and India, deserting the town. Yet, the deliberate attacks against empty houses and churches show the brutality and religious agenda of the junta.
Source: persecution.org
