Chinese Muslims protest detention of imam in Yunnan, demand release
Hundreds of Muslims in China’s Yunnan province staged protests outside government offices following the detention of Imam Ma Yuwei.
Footage on social media showed crowds praying and demanding his release in Yuxi city after police took Ma from a restaurant on Sunday.
Witnesses reported that plainclothes police surrounded the area, detaining Ma’s brother and parents as well.
The arrest is linked to China’s “sinicization” policy, aimed at controlling religious practices under President Xi Jinping.
Experts suggest international issues like Syria and Palestine are fueling Chinese fears of unrest among Muslim communities.
Activists highlight ongoing repression of religious freedoms, including clashes at the historic Najiaying Mosque.
Protesters submitted petitions for Ma’s release and an explanation, as military and police cordoned off the area. Local authorities remain silent.
The incident underscores rising tensions between China’s Muslim minorities and the government’s strict religious controls.
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