On May 25th a fine equivalent to US$2,760 and a five-year prison term was handed down to Christian convert Siaghi Krimo for ‘insulting’ Muhammad despite lack of evidence. The judge stunned the Christian community by sentencing him beyond the prosecution recommendation of a two-year prison sentence and a fine of US$690 equivalent. Krimo was tried for giving a CD to a neighbour, who then accused him of attempting to convert him to Christianity. His lawyer plans to appeal. Krimo is not required to serve his prison sentence until the court hears his appeal and upholds the conviction. The court delivered its verdict the same week that the governor of the province of Bejaia ordered the closing of seven Protestant churches. Asked if he thought the court had instructions from higher officials to hand down such heavy punishment to him, Krimo responded with no hesitation: ‘It’s certain!’

Pray: for God to reduce all opposition to the Christian message taking root and spreading in Algeria. (Mt.24:14)

More: http://www.compassdirect.org/english/country/13314/article_113189.html