UGANDA: Muslim Relatives Cut Off New Christian’s Hands

Source: Morning Star News; Voice of the Martys Australia

Kalegeya Faruku, 40, of eastern Uganda, accepted Christ in early March. Having received threats on his life, Faruku returned home briefly on 17 April to collect personal belongings before relocating to a safer place. Muslim relatives ambushed him upon his arrival.

“I found my brothers waiting for me, as if they had been informed,” Faruku said. “My elder brother approached me and pretended to ask about my whereabouts. Suddenly, he grabbed me, and others surrounded me.” They took him into the house and cut off his hands while reciting Islamic scripture. The relatives later transported him about five kilometres away and abandoned him near a crossroads, severely injured.

“I thank God that a stranger found me and raised an alarm,” he added. Faruku was rushed to a medical clinic, where he continues to undergo treatment.

His father, Lubega Issa, justified the attack by saying, “That is what sharia (Islamic law) instructs us to do to those who deny the religion of Allah,” according to Faruku’s pastor. Police had not released a statement about the incident at this writing, and it remained unclear whether any arrests had been made.

Christian community members and leaders have called for a thorough investigation and for renewed emphasis on religious freedom.

• Thank the Lord for the new faith of Kalegeya Faruku. Pray that the Lord would strengthen his faith and use him as a bold witness to his Muslim family.

• Ask the Lord to heal Faruku swiftly and without complication. Pray that he might know rich fellowship and care from other Believers as they support him in recovery.

• Pray that God would grant persecuted Christians many opportunities to show Christ’s love to their Muslim neighbours so that many would come to know Christ as their Saviour.