Church Leader Held Indefinitely in Laos

We do fear for Viengkham’s life since he is seen as an influential leader among the Laen Taen people group, one the government fears, will convert to Christianity in large numbers,” said a local Christian leader.

Viengkham was travelling with two young men from his village to Luang Pabang, Laos. Police boarded the bus and arrested all three, accusing Viengkham of human trafficking. The two young men were later allowed to return to their village, while Viengkham was taken to prison.

Two weeks before his arrest police came to the Viengkham’s house church meeting and recorded the names of all who were present. At the time Viengkham said that he was prepared to go to jail: “I want to be ready to suffer If I run away all the others will fear and stop believing.”

Viengkham has three children ages 3, 8 and 10. He is a house church leader among the Lanten people, who are known for drug addiction and spiritualism.

ICC’s Regional Manager, Logan Maurer, stated, “This is a rare instance when we see what is really going on with religious freedom in Laos. The government employs intimidation tactics and violates their own justice system to shut down Christian growth. Viengkha’s case is representative of a system that has led to many unheard victims and martyrs.”

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