By Matters India Reporter
Yangon: Cardinal Charles Maung Bo of Myanmar has decried the brutal attack and killing of civilians who took shelter in Church.
Four people died and 8 people were seriously injured when Sacred Heart Church in Kayanthayar Parish near Loikaw, the capital city of Kayah state, came under fire around 1 a.m. on May 24.
The military launched airstrikes in Demoso town in Kayah state on the evening of May 23, while tanks and trucks with soldiers were heading into Demoso town on May 24 morning, according to local sources.
Local sources confirm more than 300 people from at least 60 families had taken refuge in the church compound due to fighting between the military and an anti-coup resistance group known as the People’s Defense Force (PDF) over the weekend. The roof, ceiling and cross of the church were damaged and all those killed or wounded were Catholics.
In a letter released on 25 May 2021 the cardinal pointed out saying, “We bring to the notice of all, that the places of worship as a cultural property of a community, is covered by International Protocols. Churches, hospitals and schools are protected during conflict through the Hague Conventions.”
Cardinal further lamented the military action saying, “Apart from all Protocols, let us remember the blood that is spilled is not some enemy’s blood; those who died and those who were wounded are the citizens of this country. They were not armed; they were inside the church to protect their families. Every heart in this country weeps for the death of the innocent people.”
It is reported more than 20,000 have been displaced in the recent conflict in Loikaw.
Caridnal Bo also president of Federation of Asian Bishops’ Confernece pleaded, “This needs to stop. Our people are poor, Covid-19 robbed them of their livelihood, starvation stalks millions, the threat of another round of Covid-19 is real. Conflict is a cruel anomaly at this moment. Peace is possible; peace is the only way.”
The 72-year old cardinal who is also archbishop of Yangon appealed in the name of faith leaders “praying for pece in this great land and hoping all of us can live as brothers and sisters in this great nation.”
Myanmar has been in political turmoil since the military seized power on 1 February 2021 and conducted a brutal crackdown against anti-coup protesters and other civilians that has led to at least 815 people killed.