CSW calls for justice after brutal attack on Egyptian monastery

Christian Solidarity Worldwide (CSW) has today released a detailed report on the brutal attack in May this year on the Abu-Fana desert monastery in Upper Egypt, following a fact-finding visit to the 4th century building.

Three monks were kidnapped and tortured while several more were shot during the attack perpetrated by local Bedouins on 31 May 2008. The holy building in El Minya province was also left badly damaged.

The monastery has been attacked at least 15 times by the local Bedouin population since 2004.

The number of attacks on Coptic people, businesses, properties and institutions has escalated this year. CSW is concerned that the complicity and negligence of the state authorities and security forces in their handling of this attack will only lead to further unrest.

CSW's Advocacy Director, Alexa Papadouris, said: "The repetitive nature of these horrific attacks must be taken seriously. The failure of the Egyptian authorities to deal with the criminal elements of such attacks has led to an entrenched culture of impunity.

"We call upon the Egyptian Government to take proactive measures to address sectarian violence and ensure justice for all victims. Only then can the underlying social tension be properly dealt with."