OIC Calls on Authorities in Myanmar to Investigate Destruction of a Mosque

Date: 26/06/2016

An unidentified mob partially destroyed a mosque on June 23 and other buildings in the mosque compound in Thuyethamain village, Bago Region near central Myanmar. According to reliable sources, the attack erupted after a dispute about a building under construction in the mosque compound. One Muslim man was injured during the attack, and is currently receiving treatment for head injuries in hospital. It was reported that the authorities have since taken control of the scene, however Muslim villagers fled in fear, and are afraid to return to their homes.

OIC Secretary General Iyad Ameen Madani urged the authorities in Myanmar to take stern action and to immediately investigate this incident and bring the perpetrators to justice while ensuring that the victims receive necessary assistance.

The Secretary General stressed that failure to investigate would send a worrying message that attacks against religious minorities can continue to go unpunished. The NLD Government must condemn this attack, especially that it happens during The Holy Month of Ramadan, and condemn other attacks on religious minorities and make it clear that such violence is a criminal offence and will not be tolerated, he added.

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