The office of the National Christian Evangelical Alliance of Sri Lanka (NCEASL) was vandalized on July 3 in what appears to be a systematic search. Sometimes during the day, the attackers forced open the back door. They searched through desk drawers and filing cabinets, breaking locks and scattering their contents. It is unclear at present what exactly they were looking for. Though money was taken from a cash box, robbery does not appear to be the primary motive, since a video projector, camera, computer and other items of value were not taken.
There are concerns that the break-in may be related to NCEASL's opposition to Sri Lanka's proposed anti-conversion legislation. The organization is presently conducting a public awareness campaign and their first advertisement in the Daily News paper appeared on July 3. NCEASL suspects that the vandals may have been looking for documents related to the campaign. Files related to finances and related to action against the anti-conversion bills before parliament were not kept in the office, however.
The NCEASL is concerned about being able to continue renting their facilities as a result of this raid. Most building owners are reluctant to rent space to the organization for fear of potential damage.
An NCEASL spokesperson told VOM, "We are more determined to stand firm and struggle on for religious freedom in Sri Lanka, whatever happens. Incidents like what happened on Saturday only strengthens our resolve." Local police are apparently taking a very laid back approach to the break-in and the NCEASL does not expect justice from the Sri Lankan police or courts at this point in time.
Pray for the continued ministry of the NCEASL and other Christian organizations fighting to protect the rights of Christians in Sri Lanka. Pray that anti-conversion bills presently before the Sri Lankan parliament will not become law. The Voice of the Martyrs urges Christians from around the world to protest to Sri Lankan authorities against this proposed legislation. Click here for addresses.
For more information on Sri Lanka and the challenges facing Christians there, click here.
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