Somalia (MNN) ― Open Doors reports that Islamic extremists in Somalia are beginning to enforce the brutal aspects of sharia law. In March, Somalia's cabinet voted to implement it throughout their country.
They're responding to a recent case involving thieves who were punished by amputation. The punishment was carried out by members of al-Shabaab, an Arabic word meaning "The Lads," who follow a strict version of Sharia law.
Al-Shabaad also took credit for the assasination of two legislators, the country's security minister, a member of parliament, and 30 others. According to Compass Direct, it is clear Al-Shabaab has no intention of backing down but every intention of extending its rule politically and spiritually across Somalia.
The Open Doors team expressed concerns over the severity of the punishment for petty crime, wondering what it would be for forsaking Islam. The following story could likely be that answer:
Islamic extremists beheaded two young boys in Somalia because their Christian father refused to divulge information about a church leader; the killers are searching Kenya's refugee camps to do the same to the boys' father.
Across the country, evangelism is frowned upon and in many areas, prohibited. Somalia is almost exclusively Sunni Muslim, with 0.05 percent of the population Christian. The persecution of Christians is severe in most regions of Somalia, and many have fled to neighbouring countries.
Only a handful of Somalis are Christians, practicing their faith in secret. Pray for the believers to persevere through the hardship they face.
