Martyrs in Somalia

In the violent country of Somalia, Muslim terrorist group Al-Shabaab wants to rid the area of Christians. Just recently they shot to death Madobe Abdi, an underground church leader, and refused his body burial. They say, “Leaving Abdi’s body outside is a warning to all that the murtid [infidel] is a disgrace to Muslims.” Earlier this year another underground church leader, Mohammed Ahmed Ali, was shot by Al-Shabaab militants ten years after he converted from Islam. Last year, more than 20 believers were martyred publically.

Christians in Somalia make up less than 1% of the total population. Al-Shabaab militants control much of the country, but the government itself is not favorable toward Christians. Government leaders recently set a house on fire after they learned that a Bible and Christian literature were inside. Last year, the parliament of Somalia unanimously instituted Islamic law. Somalia’s president accepts the law’s mandate that anyone who converts from Islam should be put to death. No Christians, however, are safe in Somalia: Madobe Abdi was raised as a Christian.

One believer says, “Since there is no law and order in this country, there is no one we can turn to for protection . . . . But we know that we’re covered with the blood of Jesus Christ.” In the midst of this persecution, a Christian radio ministry continues to spread the gospel and Christians continue to share their faith.

Sources: Compass Direct News, Voice of the Martyrs Canada, Mission Network News, and Assist News