Contact: Bob Fu, China Aid Association, 432-689-6985, info@ChinaAid.org; www.ChinaAid.org, www.monitorChina.org

MIDLAND, Texas, May 2 /Christian Newswire/ -- China Aid Association has learned through credible sources that the persecution against believers in Xinjiang intensified after the recent massive arrest on April 19, 2007 in Akesu city, Xinjiang province. About 30 major house church leaders were arrested when they met with four American Christians. US government sources tell CAA that after intensive diplomacy and media pressure, the four Americans have been released and are home as of late last week. Their interpreter Mr. Jinhong Li was also released and sent home to Beijing on May 1 (Beijing time).

CAA learned that two of the host families were raided again in recent days. Their lands and other valuable household items including computers were confiscated. At least 6 others have already received criminal detention papers for 37 days detention for being accused as "suspects involved in evil cult activities." The names of the accused are Pastor Xinglan Zhao, Pastor Xiurong Huang, Pastor Tianlu Yang, 41, Pastor Chaoyi Wang, 41, Pastor Cuiling Li, 48, and Pastor Sijun He. Sources told CAA that depending on how much pressure comes from  the west, the Chinese government is preparing harsh sentences for the six accused pastors because of their connection with Americans.  They are being held at Akesu City Detention Center.

"We appeal to the international community to continue to intervene on behalf of these arrested Chinese pastors," said Rev. Bob Fu, the president of CAA. "We urge the Chinese government to sincerely respect the spirit of the rule of law and religious freedom as a responsible 2008 Summer Olympic host."

Make your concern known by calling Xinjiang authority:

The Director of PSB of Akesu city, +86-997-2517186 or 2518916

The Director of Religious Affairs Bureau, +86-997-2122419

Issued by China Aid Association Inc. on May 2, 2007 China Aid Association, Inc