On October 21, Protestant Pastor Ilmurad Nurliev was jailed for four years on charges of swindling -- allegations his family and fellow church members strongly deny (for more information, click here). He is likely to be sent to the Seydi labour camp, where there have been claims of psychotropic (mind-altering) drugs being given to prisoners. Those close to Pastor Nurliev are seriously concerned for his health, as the court ordered forced treatment for alleged drug addiction. They reported that Pastor Nurliev, a diabetic, looked "very, very pale and thin" at the trial.
Among "witnesses" produced by authorities was a woman already in jail on criminal charges, whom authorities claim gave Pastor Nurliev money. Friends of Pastor Nurliev, who were present at the trial, said that "it was clear the whole thing was set up." Nurliev was surrounded at the trial by MSS secret police officers, who prevented his wife from coming close to her husband.
Please pray Pastor Nurliev will be given the strength to endure this ordeal. Pray that he and his wife will know of the Lord's promises and His presence. Pray the truth will come to light regarding these charges. Pray for his release.
Ethnicity (%) Turkmen (85), Uzbek (5), Russian (4), other (6)
Religion (%) Islam (93), Christian (6.4)
Leader President Gurbanguly Berdimuhamedow (2007)
Government type Presidential republic; authoritarian
Legal system Civil law system with Islamic law influences
Source: CIA World Factbook
Pray for Turkmenistan
Pray that the Lord will give the suffering members of the church in Turkmenistan the strength and determination to stand firm amid opposition and oppression. May they be granted opportunities to meet together for meaningful times of worship, Bible study and fellowship – encouraging and edifying one another in the Christian faith. Despite governmental restrictions, and the threat of fine or imprisonment, may the church in Turkmenistan flourish and bear much good fruit.
Pray that Turkmen believers will have opportunities to share God’s truths. Photo: World Watch Monitor
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