CHINA: Christian Attorney Arrested

The following information is from The Voice of the Martyrs media.

On August 15th, high-profile Christian human rights attorney, Gao Zhisheng was taken into custody by security agents at his sister’s home in Shandong province for his involvement in Christian persecution cases, according to VOM contacts. Authorities have not reported on the whereabouts of Gao, but have confirmed his recent arrest. The lawyer’s wife and his 12- and 13-year-old children have illegally been placed under house arrest. Security officers occupying the private property of Gao’s home have turned away visitors from meeting with his wife and two children. The forcible entry, occupation and detainment violate China’s Constitution and the International Covenant of Children’s Rights.

Gao has represented persecuted Christians over the years, including Pastor Cai Zhuohua’s case late last year, which resulted in the court’s demand to suspend all operations of his law firm for one year, which began in November, 2005.