Photo: Radio Free Asia
On March 18th, three armed men entered a computer shop run by Pastor Nammye Hkun Jaw Li from his home in Magaung township. There, the men shot the pastor twice in the stomach and, when he did not immediately die, they also shot him in the head. At the time of publishing this report, the identities of the gunmen and the reason for the assassination are not completely evident. The pastor leaves behind a grieving wife and three children.
The slain Christian man was a well-known community leader who often participated in anti-military protests. He was also involved with a community-based anti-drug organization called Pat Jasan. The community has witnessed significant unrest because of military activity in the area. Additionally, there have been several reports of local Christian leaders being killed or arrested by members of the military junta. However, in this particular case, it is believed that Pastor Nammye was attacked due to his activities in fighting drug cultivation and distribution.
Hundreds of innocent people in Myanmar have been killed or displaced due to the ongoing violence. Military forces also commonly target Christians. For more reports on the dangers threatening believers in this Southeast Asian country, go to our country report.
Please prayerfully lift up Pastor Nammye's wife and children as they mourn this terrible loss, asking our Heavenly Father to comfort them with His presence and provide for all of their emotional, spiritual and practical needs. In the midst of the ongoing violence, pray that followers of Jesus in this war-torn region will serve as agents of His love and peace. Furthermore, intercede for those responsible for this attack who have yet to be identified and brought to justice, in hopes of them realizing the seriousness of committing such a crime and leading them to sincere repentance. May the message of God's saving grace spread throughout the country and bring many more people to faith in Christ.
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