NIGERIA: Hundreds of Militants Convicted

Source: VOMC
Sources: Associated Press, Deutsche Welle, International Christian Concern, Open Doors

Nigeria’s Federal High Court Complex in Abuja. Photo: Wikipedia / Ovinuchi Prince Ejiohuo (CC)

In early April, more than 500 individuals who had committed terrorism-related crimes were brought before a federal court in Nigeria. The proceedings, which took place in the nation's capital of Abuja, were heard by a panel of 10 judges. Many of the accused submitted guilty pleas. In the end, 386 individuals were convicted, receiving sentences ranging from five years to life imprisonment. Over 100 other cases were adjourned to a later date.

Those convicted were affiliates of the Islamic State West Africa Province or Boko Haram terrorist groups. For years, members of these militant groups have committed horrific acts of brutal violence, particularly in the northern part of the country. While the Nigerian government insists that religion is not a motivating factor behind the attacks, it is clear that churches and predominantly Christian communities have been specifically targeted. Groups seeking to establish an Islamic state consider Christianity a significant obstacle to their goals.
To review previously published prayer alert reports concerning the crimes committed against law-abiding citizens in this West African nation, go to our country profile.

• Pray that Nigeria's judicial authorities will continue to pursue and legally prosecute those who have committed such horrific crimes of violence against innocent victims in Nigeria.

• Ask the Lord to strengthen, sustain and comfort His suffering people as they now recover from the aftermath of the attacks – including the resulting loss and trauma.

• May He also minister within the hearts of the perpetrators responsible for carrying out these acts of violence, leading them to true repentance and transformation through the redeeming power of Jesus Christ.

INDIA: Harsh Anti-Conversion Laws in Chhattisgarh

Source: VOMC
Sources: Morning Star News, Catholic Connect, International Christian Concern

A pastor is sharing the Gospel in India.

Photo: VOM International

While many Indian states have instituted laws aimed at preventing coerced or forced religious conversions, the newly passed legislation in Chhattisgarh is notably more severe. Signed into effect by the governor on April 7th, the recently implemented law replaces a 1968 statute that Christian leaders say was frequently used as a weapon against minority communities.

The new law further enforces potential abuse by making it a non-bailable offence to convert anyone through force, allurement, undue influence, misrepresentation, marriage, and now also digital platforms. The ruling also mandates that individuals seeking to convert must give 60 days' advance notice, allowing opposing officials, family members, as well as others within the state, opportunities to scrutinize their intent. Police are then authorized to intervene and make arrests if any violation is suspected.

The law specifically exempts conversions to Hinduism, adding that reconverting to one's "ancestral religion" is not treated as a religious conversion. Punishments for violating the new statute are particularly harsh as standard offences carry prison sentences ranging from seven to ten years, along with fines of approximately $7,000 CAD. If the converting individual is classified as vulnerable (such as a woman, youth, mentally ill person, or someone deemed a member of India's Scheduled Castes), punishments are doubled. In addition, a "mass conversion" (involving more than one convert), could result in a life sentence.

Christian advocacy groups have called the law unconstitutional and discriminatory, arguing that it is designed to harass religious minorities. Vaguely defined terms such as "allurement" and "undue influence" have been misappropriately applied in the past, often leading to false accusations. On April 13th, more than 30,000 people gathered in Jagdalpur to protest the new law and call for its repeal. Similar demonstrations have also taken place in other communities across Chhattisgarh.

While genuinely coerced conversions should be discouraged, laws of this nature have repeatedly been used to falsely accuse, harass, intimidate and mistreat Christians.
For access to VOMC's previously published reports, go to our country profile.

• Prayerfully uphold followers of Jesus in India, asking the Lord to provide them guidance, courage and wisdom as they seek to faithfully and peaceably share the "Good News" of His great love and gift of eternal salvation amid the growing restrictions.

• Intercede for India's governing leaders, as well as the members of its judicial courts and police enforcement, praying that they would exercise discernment and strive to uphold true justice – not only preventing the misuse of laws for political or personal gain, but also rightfully granting religious freedom for all citizens.

• Additionally, pray that India's anti-conversion laws would be overturned; and that, in the interim, all believers undergoing spiritual oppression and persecution will receive persevering strength and enduring hope through their unity in the Holy Spirit.

CHINA: Christian Leaders Released from Prison

Source: VOMC
Sources: ChinaAid, Church in Chains

Church leaders in front of a banner stating, ”Dad, welcome home.” Photo: ChinaAid

In August 2022, police raided a family camp run by the Linfen Covenant House Church, resulting in numerous arrests and the closure of both the church and its affiliated school. (For additional details, see these reports.) Among those arrested were Pastor Li Jie, Han Xiaodong and Wang Qiang.

Since Wang had been released in September 2024, after serving a two-year prison sentence, he was present on April 19th to welcome the release of Pastor Li and Han following the completion of their respective sentences. According to reports, the release process for each of these believers proceeded relatively smoothly, and they were not required to sign any documents that compromised their faith principles. Staff from the judicial bureau were said to be friendly and even volunteered to assist in taking commemorative photographs. Family members added that, although their loved ones had been physically imprisoned, their spirits remained free through their steadfast faith in Christ.

Despite this encouraging news, the persecution of Christians in China remains ongoing. Believers continue to face pressure to conform to the requirements of the Chinese Communist Party, placing significant strains on the ability to freely live out their faith.
For additional reports addressing persecution in China, visit our country profile.

• Pray for Pastor Li, Han, Wang and their families as they adjust to life beyond imprisonment, asking the Lord to restore their strength, grant them healing, and guide their next steps through the restorative process.

• Remember our Christian brothers and sisters throughout China whose lives and religious freedoms are continually at risk because of their commitment to Christ.

• Lift up believers throughout this East Asian nation who are presently imprisoned for their faith, praying that they too would be further encouraged by God's presence, sustained by their eternal hope in Him, and given opportunities to rejoice and share the Gospel in the midst of their challenging circumstances.

INDONESIA: Prayer House Forcibly Closed

Source: VOMC
Sources: AsiaNews, VOM Australia, International Christian Concern, BBC

A group of believers in Indonesia. Photo: VOMC

For the second time in two years, the Tesalonika Christians Oikumene congregation in Teluknaga, Tangerang Regency, has encountered community opposition during Easter celebrations at their prayer house. The previous year, local officials sealed the building the day after Good Friday, forcing the believers to rent an alternative location in order to hold their Easter Sunday services.

This year, the authorities arrived in the middle of the Good Friday services, evicting everyone prior to sealing off the facility. This action was the result of protests from local villagers who opposed the church's activities. Some protesters are even demanding the permanent closure of the facility, claiming that the Christians do not have a valid permit.

While policies restricting "prayer houses" are generally less stringent than those required for formal church buildings, the congregation had applied for a building permit in 2023. Unfortunately, the outcome of the application remains unresolved. In the interim, however, governing officials have thankfully intervened in the situation by providing the congregants a temporary facility. The mayor has also promised to find them a suitable location where they can peaceably meet for the long term.

In various other areas of the country, protests revolving around permit-related disputes continue to pose significant challenges for many Indonesian congregations.
To review other reports addressing the challenges encountered by Christians in this Southeast Asian nation, go to our country profile.

• Pray for the members of this congregation as they continue to seek God's help amid opposition in their community, asking Him to grant them patience, guidance, endurance and steadfast faith.

• As in their case, may the Lord likewise intervene in the hearts and minds of governing officials in other parts of the country, also guiding them towards just and lasting resolutions that will both honour Him and uphold the dignity of Indonesia's faith communities.

• In general, may the Lord work in the hearts of the country's overall population – not only making it possible for religious tolerance and understanding to take place, but also creating opportunities for believers to share His love and the "Good News" of His salvation.

EGYPT: Court Hearing for Christian Convert

Source: VOMC
Sources: Church in Chains, International Christian Concern, USCIRF

Saeid Mansour Abdulraziq Photo: CSW

Saeid Mansour Abdulraziq converted from Islam to Christianity in 2016, joining the Russian Orthodox Church. Immediately following his conversion, he began experiencing harassment and intimidation from his family members, the wider community, and local police. In an effort to find safety, Saeid sought asylum in Russia but was forced to return to Egypt in 2024.

An outspoken advocate for his Christian faith, Saeid was formally charged in July 2025. The accusations against him include participation in a terrorist organization, stirring unrest and spreading false information.
(For more details on his arrest, go to this page.)

Religious freedom advocates contend that Saeid's arrest is solely the result of his conversion and Christian activities. While apostasy is not a criminal offence under Egyptian law, attempts to change one's religious identity on official documents have frequently led to national security charges.

While a court hearing was scheduled to take place on April 21st before Egypt's First Criminal Terrorism Circuit in Badr, the outcome is yet to be publicized. This court, which handles terrorism-related cases, has been widely criticized for its lack of transparency and frequent denial of defendants' basic legal protections. While awaiting his hearing, Saeid has reportedly suffered from physical abuse and a lack of access to many basic necessities.

• Please uphold Saeid in your prayers, asking God to provide him strength, comfort and peace, as well as the practical provisions that are needed to improve his physical health and well-being.

• Pray that Saeid will also receive capable and compassionate legal representation so that all the charges against him would be dismissed.

• Additionally, remember the many other Christian converts in Egypt who are facing hostility and uncertainty because of their faith, praying that they too would receive protection, courage, and the reassurance that they are not forgotten.

PAKISTAN: Child Marriage Bill Reaches Final Hurdle

Source: VOMC
Sources: Christian Daily International, Dawn

Governor of Punjab, Sardar Saleem Haider Khan Photo: Wikipedia (CC)

On February 11th, the governor of Punjab signed the "Child Marriage Restraint Ordinance 2026" into effect. This recently implemented law aims to raise the minimum legal age for marriage to 18 and establish penalties for violation. Those advocating for the protection of the country's youth describe the legislation as a "moral and social victory."
(For more details, see our previously published report.)

Child marriage has long been a serious concern in Pakistan, particularly for young Christian girls who are frequently kidnapped, forcibly converted to Islam, and then married to their abductors against their will.
Numerous reports documenting cases of such abuses against our young Pakistani sisters in Christ can be found at our country profile.

Although currently in effect, this ordinance is temporary. The newly implemented law will automatically lapse in May – 90 days after its introduction – unless approval is granted by the Punjab Assembly. The legislation has already passed through the standing committee, but now awaits a final vote by the Assembly. Opponents argue that the restraint ordinance conflicts with their personal freedoms, as well as interpretations of Islamic law, which permit the marriage of young girls upon reaching puberty.

• Pray that members of the Punjab Assembly will seriously take into consideration the devastating consequences and trauma posed to vulnerable girls (and their concerned families) if this life-protecting legislation is not swiftly and rightfully approved.

• Lift up the many young victims who have already been forcibly converted and married, asking God to provide greatly needed healing, protection and restoration in their lives.

• Pray that Christians in this predominantly Muslim nation would not only be strengthened and encouraged in the midst of pressure and opposition, but also empowered by the Holy Spirit to serve as willing instruments of the Lord's compassion, forgiveness and saving grace.

NEPAL: Pastor Acquitted of Illegal Conversion Charges

Source: VOMC
Sources: UCA News, Barnabas Aid, VOMC Contacts

Photo: PxHere

In December 2024, Pastor Janmajaya Bhattarai, joined by a team of fellow Christians, distributed gifts and clothing to underprivileged students. At the request of local schools, the believers faithfully carried out this outreach program for several years as a Christmas tradition.

However, when the pastor posted information about the event on his Facebook page, some Hindu militants reacted angrily, accusing the church leader of bribing the students in an attempt to convert them to Christianity. As a result, Pastor Janmajaya was arrested on December 24th of that year. Although he was released on bail three weeks later, the charges against him remained.

After more than a year of uncertainty, all charges against Pastor Janmajaya were finally dropped on March 24th. The church leader has since expressed deep relief at being freed from the concern of imprisonment. Church leaders within Nepal are hopeful that this ruling may help set a precedent for similar cases in the future.

Around the same time that Pastor Janmajaya was released, three other believers were detained for sharing their faith. (To review details regarding these arrests, see our previously posted report.) According to the latest information received from local sources, the three recently imprisoned believers remain in custody while their cases are under investigation. Although no formal charges have been laid, their detentions have been repeatedly extended.
Other published reports concerning the persecution of Christians in Nepal are available at our country profile.

• While we can praise God that Pastor Janmajaya has been fully cleared of all charges, please pray that the outreaches of this dedicated servant and his ministry team will continue to effectively meet the practical and spiritual needs of the underprivileged members in their community.  
• Also prayerfully uphold the three recently arrested believers who are presently being held in custody because of their desire to share the hope of Jesus Christ, asking Him to intervene judicially on their behalf so that all the allegations against them will be dropped.  
• As God's servants in this predominantly Hindu nation wisely and boldly share the "Good News" of Jesus' sacrificial love among the Nepali people, may many more lives experience eternal salvation and transformation.

BELARUS: Another Church Leader Arrested

Source: VOMC
Source: Forum18

Father Anatol Parakhnevich Photo: Katolik.life

On March 16th, masked security officials arrested Anatol Parakhnevich, a 65-year-old Catholic priest, at his parish in Alkovichi, Minsk Region. During the arrest, officers searched his home as well as the church building. Following the raid, both premises were sealed, with the keys being returned one week later.

While it has been confirmed that Father Anatol was taken into custody, it remains unclear which agency conducted the arrest, where the church leader is currently being held, and whether any formal accusations have been made against him. When contacted, a spokesperson for the Belarusian religious affairs office claimed to have no information on the arrest, and police officials refused to provide any comment.

This arrest comes four months after the regime freed two other Catholic priests who had been sentenced to lengthy prison terms. (See this report for details.) Following their releases, both priests were sent to Rome where they remain today. Latest reports confirm that Belarusian officials are not permitting them to return and resume their ministry.

Although strict constraints have been placed on foreign religious workers, Father Anatol was born in Belarus where he grew up in an orphanage. He has faithfully served the church in Alkovichi for almost 20 years.
Further reports addressing the challenges facing Christians in Belarus may be reviewed at our country profile.

• May the authorities provide clear and accurate information regarding the detention of this most recently arrested church leader.  
• In addition to interceding for Father Anatol's release, ask the Lord to sustain him with peace, strength and protection – physically, emotionally and spiritually – during this present time of incarceration.  
• Also remember the many other Christians in Belarus who continue to face severe limitations and regulations, praying that they too will experience spiritual endurance amid opposition; divine protection; and, ultimately, the freedom to worship the Lord both privately and corporately.

MALAYSIA: Government Appeal Withdrawn in Missing Pastor's Case

Source: VOMC
Sources: Mission Network News, Open Doors, South China Morning Post, Aliran

Pastor Raymond Koh

In November 2025, the Malaysian High Court ruled that the government was complicit in the 2017 disappearance of Pastor Raymond Koh and ordered that his wife, Susanna, receive significant financial compensation. The court also directed the release of a government report containing information about the disappearance, despite authorities' insistence that the document was classified as "top secret."
For more details on this ruling, see this report.

Following the court decision, the government filed an appeal, and a stay was granted pending its outcome. Susanna expressed concern that the appeal process could take up to five years to conclude. However, in an unexpected turnabout, the Malaysian government withdrew its appeal on April 1st. Pastor Raymond's family is now expected to gain access to the previously classified report, and the investigation into his disappearance is set to recommence.

In response to this decision, Amnesty International Malaysia has called for concrete and transparent action by the authorities: "If the government is truly committed to ensuring accountability and preventing future enforced disappearances, it must swiftly conduct independent, transparent and effective investigations followed by the prosecution of all those suspected of criminal responsibility."
To learn more about Pastor Raymond's case, or to read about other situations of persecution involving our Malaysian brothers and sisters in Christ, go to our country profile.

• In light of this latest development, pray that the full truth surrounding Pastor Raymond's mysterious disappearance would be revealed, and that justice will ultimately prevail.  
• Having lived with uncertainty and anguish for nearly 10 years since his abduction, may Susanna, along with her family and friends, experience God's sustaining presence, reassuring comfort and overflowing peace.  
• Prayerfully uphold all believers throughout this Southeast Asian country, asking the Lord to help them remain steadfast in their faith and further embolden their Christian witness so they can compassionately reach others with the Gospel in their Malaysian communities.  

NIGERIA: Twelve Fatalities in Easter Sunday Attacks

Source: VOMC
Sources: International Christian Concern, The Washington Post, Morning Star News, Truth Nigeria, BBC

A funeral from a previous incident. Photo: Morning Star News

Easter Sunday worship services in the town of Ariko, Kaduna State, were violently disrupted when gunmen attacked two churches, killing 12 Christians. According to witnesses, Fulani rebels opened fire on followers of Jesus who had been worshipping at the Evangelical Church Winning All (ECWA) and the St. Augustine Catholic Church. In addition to the fatalities, dozens of others were kidnapped and both church buildings sustained damages.

Residents reported that as many as 30 militants surrounded the town. The gunmen specifically targeted the ECWA congregation first before moving directly to the Catholic church. The coordinated movement between the two sites suggests that the attacks were carefully planned.

Following the incidents in Ariko, the Nigerian army pursued the attackers, resulting in a firefight. The army reported that as the terrorists fled, 31 of the kidnapped hostages were left behind. The number of individuals still being held captive remains unknown.

Violence during Christian holidays is a tragically common occurrence in Nigeria, as well as in other specific regions of the world.
More details about the atrocities experienced by our Nigerian family in Christ can be obtained by reviewing VOMC's written and video-recorded reports at our country profile.

• Prayerfully uphold the families and friends of those who were tragically killed during these recent incidents, asking the Lord to tenderly minister to them by providing His healing presence, comfort and strength as they grieve such painful loss.
• May Nigeria's authorities receive wisdom, courage and integrity as they endeavour to recover the kidnapped victims and bring those responsible for committing the crimes to justice.
• Pray that the hope and transformative power of the Risen Christ would spread throughout the region, leading many – including those who carried out the attacks – to faith in Him.

ERITREA: Police Arrest 13 Believers During Gathering

Source: VOMC
Source: Open Doors Canada

Photo: Pexels /  Alejandro De Roa

On Sunday, March 15th, Eritrean police arrested 13 Christians at a gathering held in an undisclosed location. The believers were then taken to a prison in the capital city of Asmara. While the identities of the arrested individuals have not been publicly released, a recently received report indicates that one of the detainees – who previously spent 15 years in prison – was freed less than a year ago. No further information regarding the arrests is currently available. In the interim, considering the longstanding patterns of persecution in Eritrea, there are concerns that these believers may be held without any formal charges or court trial.

In January, more than 100 Christians who had been imprisoned for their faith were released.
(See this report for more details.) Following these releases, VOMC's Greg Musselman interviewed Dr. Berhane Asmelash from Release Eritrea. To hear this recorded audio podcast, in which they discuss the challenges facing our Christian brothers and sisters in Eritrea, go to this page.

• Given the harsh conditions frequently experienced in Eritrean prisons, please pray that God's protection, strength and sustaining presence will be with each of these recently arrested believers and all other followers of Christ who are currently being detained.
• Additionally, pray for significant changes to take place within Eritrea's political system – opening the way for positive reforms that will result in freedom of religion and dignity for all citizens.
• Lift up the loved ones of those who were recently arrested, asking God to also comfort them with His perfect peace, sustaining hope, and the wonderful assurance that He sovereignly sees all, cares deeply and responds justly.

INDIA: Court Reiterates Privileges for Specified Religions

Source: VOMC
Sources: Tribune India, The Hindu, International Christian Concern

India's Supreme Court Building Photo: Wikimedia / Subhashish Panigrahi (CC)

In India, where the caste system remains deeply embedded within the framework of societal standards, those belonging to the lowest castes are classified as "scheduled castes" or "Dalits." Although historically marginalized, and often subjected to severe social discrimination, members of the lower castes receive constitutional protections and access to certain governmental benefits.

A Supreme Court ruling on March 24th reiterated earlier decisions, stating that the scheduled caste status – and the benefits attached to it – are not available to individuals who profess a religion other than Hinduism, Sikhism or Buddhism. As a result, conversion to any other faith leads to the immediate loss of these protections. The justification for this ruling continues to rest on the assertion that Christianity and Islam do not recognize caste distinctions. However, critics note that Buddhism and Sikhism likewise do not follow a system of castes.

The recent court ruling also clarified that any Dalits who had initially converted away from one of the mentioned approved religions – yet later decided to return – would be able to reclaim their scheduled caste status, provided they fulfill certain stipulated conditions. These conditions include: 1) conversion back to their originating religion, and 2) formal acceptance as reintegrated members of their caste communities.

While India is officially a secular state, Hindu nationalist organizations exert significant influence over governing policies in many areas of the country. Several states have instituted anti-conversion laws that punish "unlawful" religious conversions through which coercion or pressure are allegedly involved. Most recently, India's second-largest state, Maharashtra, passed such regulations in March of this year.

Against this broader backdrop, the ruling of India's Supreme Court has raised concerns among religious freedom advocates. By permitting the restoration of social and financial benefits only when individuals convert to select religions, the decision appears to create incentives for reconversions away from Christianity or Islam. Critics also argue that the ruling risks undermining religious impartiality – and, ironically, may even be considered an indirect endorsement for such coerced conversions.
To review previously published reports concerning the situation in India, visit our country profile.

• Prayerfully uphold India's human rights advocates, asking God to grant them wisdom and guidance as they legally and politically navigate through the country's complex religious and social issues in their endeavours to promote fairness and impartiality.
• Remember our Christian brothers and sisters in this South Asian country who are facing accusations of forced conversion, asking the Lord to provide them with protection, courage and clarity so they can respond wisely and in a manner that will ultimately bring honour to Him.
• Lift up the many Dalits who have been subjected to financial burdens and social exclusion for remaining faithful to Christ, praying that our Heavenly Father will providentially provide for their daily spiritual and practical needs.