Photo: Unsplash / Tu Tran Anh
Two Montagnard Vietnamese Christians – Pastor Siu Yui and church member Siu Dok – were arrested on June 1st for spreading religious propaganda and allegedly instigating talk of independence for Vietnam's Central Highlands. Authorities claim that these men have been "undermining national unity" and associating with illegal organizations. In addition, they were accused of misrepresenting the current state of religious freedom and democracy in Vietnam through comments shared on social media.
The Montagnard people, most of whom are Christians living in the Central Highlands of this Southeast Asian country, have a long history of conflict with the Vietnamese government – primarily due to ongoing harassment from the country's Communist leadership.
Another Montagnard leader, Y Quynh Bdap, fled the country in 2018 and sought refugee protection in Thailand. Regrettably, Thai authorities later extradited him back to Vietnam, where he is now serving a 10-year prison sentence. (See further details about this Christian leader's detention.) Additional reports addressing persecution in Vietnam are available at our country profile.
- Pray for the two recently arrested Christian men as they face these serious accusations, asking God to administer His peace, protection and strength throughout every moment of their sentences – along with the assurance that His truth and justice will ultimately prevail.
- Please uphold Y Quynh Bdap as well, praying that this Christian activist will not only be comforted and sustained as he awaits a hopeful earlier release from imprisonment, but also filled with great anticipation and courage – knowing that God's promises will be fulfilled in and through his dedicated life.
- In general, prayerfully remember the country's many other believers, including the Montagnard Christians living in Vietnam's Central Highlands. Despite the long-term oppression they have endured, may these followers of Jesus be greatly encouraged, deeply rooted in their faith, and upheld by a clear sense of God's abiding presence with them.
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