More than 70 people have been arrested and interrogated by the authorities in a major crackdown on church activities in east China. Pastors, other Christians and people exploring faith were detained during church gatherings, with others picked up from their homes or workplaces. It was part of a sweeping operation that begun two months ago, involving up to 400 police officers and some 200 vehicles, aimed at targeting Christians involved in Bible study groups. Those arrested were questioned about their finances and denominational affiliations. More than 20 people have since been fined, with penalties ranging from several thousand to tens of thousands of Chinese Yuan. According to Open Doors sources, the fines appear to be tied to financial offerings given to the church and so-called ‘illegal’ Bible study groups. Another Christian group in the same region was also put through interrogations and given warnings.
