Abdikhani Hassan, a Christian Somali man, was shot and killed on October 20th by two young men. The assailants shot Abdikhani seven times as he was walking home after closing his pharmacy. Before his death, one of the gunmen told Abdikhani's neighbour, "We have information that (he) is spreading wrong religion to our people, and we are looking for him."
Authorities have arrested several men in connection with the murder and are continuing to investigate. Abdikhani is survived by his pregnant wife, as well as their five children who range in age from three to 12.
As Abdikhani's family mourns, pray that they will know and trust God as the "defender of widows" and a "Father to the fatherless" (Psalm 68:5). May other believers in Somalia not give in to fear in the face of this violence, but remain steadfast in their faith. Ask God to work in the lives of the two gunmen, softening their hearts so they will be receptive to the Good News of Jesus Christ.
For a short video with testimonies of Somali believers, as well as information on how VOMC provides safe refuge for endangered converts, visit this page. For more information on Somalia's persecuted church, please visit the Somalia Country Report.
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