Photo: Flickr / United Nations (CC)
In 2011, Sudan was divided into two nations, resulting in the founding of South Sudan. This followed years of conflict in which the Sudan People's Liberation Army (SPLA) fought for independence. After South Sudan was established, most SPLA supporters became part of the newly founded nation. However, some rebel fighters remained in Sudan, eventually forming SPLA-N, a separatist group that has continued to oppose the government in Sudan's central-southern state of South Kordofan.
Several recent incidents of persecution have taken place within the Nuba Mountain region of South Kordofan, indicating that Christian leaders are being targeted by a breakaway faction of the rebel group. On July 23rd, militants stormed the town of Dabbi. As a result of the violent raid, Pastor Adel Idris Jongool was shot. Tragically, the church leader succumbed to his injuries a few days later. This attack came only weeks after a Catholic priest, Father Youhana Al-Amin, was killed in nearby Kauda. During the assault on Father Youhana, rebel fighters entered his church and demanded medical supplies.
In a separate attack, which also took place on July 23rd, at least 10 people were killed in the town of Heiban. During this incident, approximately 20 others had been kidnapped – including numerous children. Among the captives were Pastor Yaqob Ibrahim Tia, his two sons, a brother and a nephew. Thankfully, the kidnappers released all the captured victims on July 28th. However, on July 31st, Pastor Zakaria Suliman Jana was then abducted in Heiban but released the following day.
To date, no information has been provided regarding the motives of the captors, nor were there reports indicating whether the assailants had stipulated any conditions prior to the victims' release. While it does not appear as if ransom demands were made, observers speculate that the attacks may have been intended to demonstrate the group's ability to destabilize the region.
According to these recent incidents, it is evident that church leaders are specifically being targeted amid the ongoing violence within this region, and churches throughout Sudan continue to encounter opposition as civil war and instability ravage the nation. To review previously published Persecution & Prayer Alert reports concerning the suffering of our Christian family in Sudan, go to our country profile.
- Although we praise God for the safe release of the recently abducted believers, please prayerfully uphold these surviving victims and their loved ones who are now needing His comfort, strength, healing and peace in the aftermath of the traumatic events.
- Pray that the mourning families and friends of Pastor Adel, Father Youhana – and others who were slain during the attacks – will experience God's comforting presence and sustaining grace.
- While working to ultimately bring about peace, stability and justice within this war-torn nation, may the Lord continue to strengthen His people and enable the church to remain steadfast in both faith and hope despite the present challenges.
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