A Catholic priest from the Archdiocese of Mandalay has been stabbed to death in Myanmar.
Father Donald Martin Ye Naing Win, 44, was fatally attacked by a group of armed men while alone at Ludmal Thawma Church around 7:00 pm on 14th February, according to reports.
Reports from Catholic Connect state that ten attackers forced Father Win to kneel before repeatedly stabbing him. All the assailants were reportedly arrested.
Christian Solidarity Worldwide (CSW) says the incident is part of a larger, disturbing pattern of violence aimed at religious minorities in Myanmar, particularly since the military junta took control.
Religious communities, especially those belonging to minority faiths, have faced systematic repression, with growing reports of attacks on churches, clergy, arbitrary arrests, and restrictions on religious practices.
Just days earlier, on 6th February, airstrikes severely damaged the Sacred Heart of Jesus Catholic Church in Mindat, Chin State. The church had been newly designated as the cathedral of the Mindat diocese before the attack.
Cardinal Charles Maung Bo, speaking on behalf of the Catholic Bishops’ Conference of Myanmar, condemned the killing of Father Win. He called for justice, saying: "The wrongdoing committed against Father Donald Martin Ye Naing Win is not something that can be easily forgotten. Therefore, we urge those responsible to take appropriate action and ensure justice is served, so that such incidents do not occur again in the future."
Mervyn Thomas, Founder President of Christian Solidarity Worldwide (CSW), also voiced strong concern over the murder. "The murder of Father Donald Martin Ye Naing Win is yet another example of the deepening persecution and insecurity faced by religious minorities in Myanmar," Thomas said. "No one should be targeted for their faith, yet priests, churches, and religious communities continue to face threats and violence."
CSW is calling for a full and independent investigation into the crime and urging the international community to demand justice, accountability, and solidarity with those affected. The organization is also calling for increased efforts to protect freedom of religion or belief in Myanmar.
Father Win’s death underscores the growing dangers faced by religious minorities in Myanmar, as their communities continue to grapple with increasing violence and oppression under the current regime.
