Ref: 67/2009

Date: 24 May 2009

Time: 11:00 GMT

PCHR Strongly Condemns Desecration of Cemeteries of the Orthodox and Latin Churches in Jafna Village North of Ramallah

The Palestinian Center for Human Rights (PCHR) strongly condemns the desecration of two Christian cemeteries in Jafna village, north of Ramallah, and calls upon the Palestinian government in Ramallah to investigate these crimes and bring the perpetrators before the judiciary.

PCHR’s investigations indicate that at approximately 08:00 on Sunday, 24 May 2009, dozens of Christian believers went to the Orthodox and Latin churches in the south and north of the village respectively to attend the Sunday Mass. When they entered the two churches, they noticed signs of sabotage to the cemeteries, which included the breaking of grave crosses and the cutting of electricity and ornamentation wires. According to George Abdu, Pastor of the Orthodox Church in Jafna village, at least 70 graves, as well as some Christian symbols, were desecrated. He added that the Palestinian authorities were informed about the assault, and demanded that the attack be investigated and the perpetrators prosecuted.

Brigadier Adnan al-Dumairi, security services spokesman and deputy head of political guidance, stated that the security services had initiated a combined investigation.

Jafna village is located near Bir Zeit village, north of Ramallah. At least 1,600 people, including 900 Christians, live in the village, where an Orthodox Church and a Latin Church were established approximately 200 years ago.

PCHR reiterates its condemnation for this crime, and calls upon the Palestinian government in Ramallah to investigate it and prosecute the perpetrators.