On September 30th, approximately 20 police officers raided a worship centre in Kyzl-Suu, searching the building and filming those present. The officers also brought along four unidentified women who began pushing people around, searching the bags of the women present and stealing anything they wanted. Despite protests, the police would not stop their actions.
As part of the search, which was conducted without a warrant, officials confiscated numerous items including sound equipment, books, and a computer. After more than two hours, participants were forced into a bus and taken to a police station for questioning.
As a result of the psychological pressure experienced during the interrogation, one woman and a five-year-old girl had to be taken to the hospital. Following the officials' mandate to obtain photographs and statements from everyone, the remaining church members were finally released more than 12 hours later.
When subsequently questioned about the raid, the duty officer at the Bostanlyk District Police Station claimed that the raid never happened and refused to answer any questions.
Prayerfully uphold all the church members who had been forced to endure this ordeal, along with many other believers in Uzbekistan facing similar challenges and threats. Ask God to grant His people wisdom and favour when dealing with the authorities. May their gracious response and honourable conduct serve as testimonies of His love to those who oppose them.
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