The presidents of the churches in Surabaya went public with their statement after the attacks. They expressed concern but also clear demands to the political leadership of the country; it should immediately create an anti-terror law.
Suicide attacks on three churches in Surabaya killed at least 13 people and injured 40 on May 13. The attacks were carried out by a family of six. In another bombing attack, four assailants attacked a police headquarters, killing the four perpetrators and injuring at least ten people. The series of attacks was the most serious in Indonesia in 15 years.
The churches in Surabaya made clear statements at a press conference, which were also prominently posted on the website of the Federation of Churches PGI (partner of Mission 21). The churches express concern and sadness about the events, emphasize their rejection of acts of violence, and ask church members to remain calm. They further emphasize that the visit of Indonesia's President Joko Widodo to Surabaya is an important expression of solidarity; the work of the police is also praised. It is now urgent, they say, that parliament and the government should draft an anti-terror law without delay.
â–º Online article on the attacks, on the "Der Bund" website
â–º Mission 21 is active in interreligious peace work in Indonesia
