Christian Couple in Somaliland Arrested for “Apostacy”

UPDATE (11/13/20) – Middle East Concern reports:

Muna and Awale were deported by order of the Somaliland Court on Nov 1.

The Somali converts from Islam to Christianity traveled with their infant to Somalia then onto a safe country to be reunited with their two oldest sons.

According to their lawyer, this decision came after European government representatives raised the case with the Ministry of Religious Affairs.

Somali Christians request prayer:

• Thanking God for the couple’s sudden release and their arrival in a safe country.
• The family will overcome the trauma and strength to rebuild their lives.
• For Christians in Somaliland to have strength, wisdom, courage to continue their ministries and for healing of trauma caused by the arrests.

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A Christian couple in Somaliland have been arrested for being “apostates and evangelists spreading Christianity.”  Muna and Awale were found with Christian materials and arrested on September 21.

A police colonel who announced the arrests accused the couple of leaving Islam and evangelizing. He urged people to report anyone spreading Christianity.

“Whoever dares to spread Christianity in this region should be fully aware that they won’t escape the hand of the law enforcement officers and that the spread of Christianity will not be allowed and is considered blasphemy,” the policeman said.

The couple’s two sons are with Christians in Ethiopia. Their infant baby is with Muna.

Middle East Concerns reports that Somali Christians request prayer that:

• Muna and Awale will know the presence of Jesus, His comfort and His strength in this difficult time.
• Muna, the infant baby, and Awale will be treated well.
• For comfort for the two boys who are separated from their parents.
• Muna and Awale will be acquitted and reunited with their children.
• Christians in Somaliland will live their faith boldly and without government interference.

Somaliland declared independence from Somalia in 1991 but has not been officially recognized by any country or international organization. Islam is the state religion, and no laws may violate Sharia.

The Somali Bible Society wrote to Somaliland’s President to release Muna and Awale.