Police in Indonesia prevent extremist attack on church

An attack by around 50 Muslim extremists on Pasundan Christian Church in the West Java Province of Indonesia has been averted by security forces, according to Open Doors Netherlands. The attack was the second violent incident at the church in two weeks.

According to Open Doors Netherlands, the attack was prevented on 2 December when two truck loads of police officers arrived at the church several hours before the planned attack. In addition, local Christians in the area are receiving greater police protection.

The attack was planned by suspected members of the Anti Apostasy Movement Alliance (AAMA). AAMA members were responsible for another attack on the church on 18 November when 250 members of the group made a forced entry into the church and started smashing the interior of the church.

The church has been operating for over 50 years. Despite this the municipal authorities have refused to give the church official permission to hold worship services. This is believed to be because of pressure by Muslim leaders and militants, reports BosNewsLife.

Open Doors said, "Already 25 years they are trying to receive permission. However [permission] is always refused because local Islamic leaders say there are not enough Christians in the area," reports BosNewsLife.

Open Doors also quoted Islamic leaders as saying, "There isn't a need for a church."

It has been reported that Christians have told the authorities and Muslim representatives that they need the church for Christmas services. Despite this "Muslim militants have threatened to attack the church if it is not closed".

It has also been reported that the municipality has given another building for the church to hold services in, whilst under police protection. Open Doors said that "church leaders are still trying to get permission to hold church services in their own building".