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Another church attacked

The Jesus Lives Evangelical Ministry complex at Kirullabokka, Kurunegala came under attack by an unidentified group in the early hours of December 20.

Officials attached to the church said  that around five to six unknown men had arrived in an auto rickshaw  carrying petrol bombs, which were later thrown on the roof of the premises that resulted in the entire building being destroyed. The damage is estimated at half a million rupees.

Officials quoting eye witnesses said that the auto rickshaw had been seen in the vicinity of the church about an hour before the incident had taken place. The incident was later brought to the notice of the local police, which comes under the Virambugedera police division.

However, Virambugedera OIC L.S. Bandaranayaka said that the fire could have been caused due to an electric shortage and that evidence of a bomb attack had not been found so far.

He also said that there is a dispute between the church and the villagers and that this matter is before the courts.

Meanwhile Christian Affairs Minister John Amaratunga said that he is aware of  attacks against the Christian community. He also said that he is aware that the attacks are mainly directed against the clergy and places of worship. He said that he believes that the recent attacks against a church in Kurunegala and other attacks are part of a well-organised campaign.

Amaratunga said he was not certain who is leading  these attacks but believes it to be the work of a small group.

The Minister's comments come in wake of President Chandrika Kumaratunga's directive to increase protection to Christian organisations.

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