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

Jeddah, 22 Ramadan 1437/28 June 2016 (MINA) – The Secretary-General of the Organisation of Islamic Cooperation, OIC, Iyad Ameen Madani, has urged the authorities in Myanmar to take stern action and immediately investigate an incident of a mob partially destroying a Mosque on June 23rd, 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 as 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.

Ealier, an unidentified mob partially destroyed a Mosque and other buildings in the compound on June 23rd in Thuyethamain village, in the Bago region near central Myanmar.

According to reliable sources, the attack erupted after a dispute about a building under construction in the Mosque compound. A 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.  (T/R07/R01)

Mi’raj Islamic News Agency (MINA)