News by email Donate

Suggestions

Top Stories

Most Read

Popular Videos

islamic-state-fighters-main_article_image.jpg
REX/ZUMA
World News

Islamic State using ancient Raqqa church as police HQ

The building of the Armenian Catholic Church of the Martyrs is being used by terrorists to enforce their strict interpretation of Islam.

Under the rules woman can be flogged for showing their face. Shop keepers selling products showing a woman's face, like hair dye, are also at risk.

The church's new use was reported by Swedish news agency Expressen TV, which commissioned two Syrian woman to go undercover and secretly film.

Expressen TV

Based in Raqqa, the self-proclaimed capital of the 'Islamic State' the woman show what life is like under the jihadists.

Hisbah, the religious police who enforce Sharia law, are using the church to discuss tactics and hand out punishments.

Raqqa was taken over by the militants in the summer of 2014 and has been under their control ever since.

Thousands of Christians fled the city amid a warning to pay a tax, leave or be killed.

A Monthly Gift Of $11 Makes A World Of Difference

In a world of fake news there’s never been a greater need for quality Christian journalism. Premier’s mission is to provide the Church with the most up to date and relevant news, told from a Christian perspective. But we can’t do it without you.

Unlike many websites we haven't put up a paywall — we want to keep our journalism free at the point of need and as open as we can. Premier’s news output takes a lot of time, money and hard work to produce. No one in the USA is sharing news like we are across radio, magazines and online so please help us to continue that today.

For a monthly gift of $11 or more we’d also be able to send you a free copy of the brand new Premier Bible, a wonderful Anglicised version of the NLT packed with exclusive bonus content, reading plan and resources to help you get the most out of scripture.

Your monthly support will make a world of difference. Thank you.

Support Us
Continue the conversation on our Facebook page

Related Articles

Sign up to our newsletter to stay informed with news from a Christian perspective.

News by email

Connect

Donate

Donate