The Coptic Orthodox Diocese of Abu-Qurqas, Minya, some 250km south of Cairo, issued a statement on the evening of 5 September regarding an attack that took place against Copts in the village of al-Khayari.
The statement, signed by Anba Philopateer, Bishop of Abu-Qurqas, read:
“The village of al-Khayari in Abu-Qurqas includes a place where a visiting priest is used to meet the Coptic villagers to offer pastoral and practical care. Recently, an application was submitted by the Coptic Church to the relevant authorities for licence to build a church on that spot.
“Close to that place, a house owned by Emad Wagih Emad is located. Mr Emad applied for licence to build another house close to his, a house that has no connection whatsoever with the church projected to be built. Some Khayari villagers took to social media to spread word that the village Copts were building an unlicensed church, inciting the village Muslims against the Copts. The allegations were absolutely false.
“On Tuesday 5 September, a number of Muslim villagers attacked Mr Emad’s house, looting the construction materials he had bought to build his new house, which he had been storing on site.
“The electric supply to the village was cut, and Mr Emad’s property was set on fire.
“The police arrived and arrested a number of men who had committed the outlaw activity.
“We are confident of the wisdom and ability of the political leaders and security chief in Minya to lawfully resolve the situation.”
Watani International
7 September 2023
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