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ACN
World News

Sri Lanka: Priest calls for justice for victims of Easter bombings

Seven months on from the terrorist attacks in which three churches in Sri Lanka and three hotels were targeted in a series of suicide bombings, authorities have yet to name those responsible.

Father Nishantha Cooray, who ministered to many survivors following the atrocity says victims are still waiting for justice to be served.

Speaking to Premier he said: "The police investigation is over. Our problem is, the report is not released. Nobody knows the outcome.

He went on to say that the Archbishop of Colombo attempted to push authorities for information but was unsuccessful in receiving any further information.

"We need justice, internationally, there should be some voice against this," he added.

Father Cooray spoke to members of parliament yesterday in association with the release of a new study by Catholic charity Aid to the Church in Need (ACN) which highlights the current state of Christian oppression across the globe.

Speaking to Premier at the event he said: "We are asking the international community to influence the Sri Lankan government to release the report."

He went on to say that despite the events that took place in April, the faith of Christians has remained strong:

"Even though the people are persecuted, their faith is so strong. Even when faced with church closures and terror threats so many are coming into the church.

"The people have not lost their faith."

Father Cooray says the Christian community there have displayed love and grace, adding: "the people don't have any anger towards Muslim brothers."

ACN's Persecuted and Forgotten 2019 report provides an up-to-date overview of attacks against Christians over the past two years focusing on 12 key countries of concern, including Sri Lanka.

The report is the first of its kind since the Bishop of Truro's Independent Review for the Foreign Office and calls on the government not to forget the Christians that continue to face persecution and to ensure that the right to freedom of religion and belief is upheld internationally.

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