Authorities in Myanmar’s autonomous Wa Region have ordered the temporary closure of Christian churches following the spread of an extremist religious cult originating from neighboring China, according to local sources and official statements.
The directive affects places of worship across Panghkam, Mongpauk, Narwee, and Monghsat Districts, all administered by the United Wa State Army (UWSA).
Residents reported that the closures stem from the influx of an extremist sect locally referred to as the "Chinese Woman Jesus" cult. Promoters of the group—who entered from China around mid-April—reportedly urged vulnerable residents to forgo medical care and prescription drugs, claiming faith alone could heal illness.
UWSA spokesperson U Nyi Rang confirmed on Facebook that several churches had been temporarily shuttered as a precaution. He stated that legitimate churches would be allowed to reopen once authorities confirm they have no ties to extremist activities.
While the UWSA framework guarantees regulated religious freedom, U Nyi Rang stressed that unauthorized external preaching and illegal religious activities remain strictly prohibited. He added that neighboring Chinese authorities had also raised alarms regarding the sect.
According to local outlet Wa News Land, approximately 40 churches in Panghkam Township alone have been temporarily closed under the directive, with at least two individuals—including a local pastor—reportedly detained.
Local observers noted that most of those detained were residents misled by the cult's promises amid widespread poverty and limited educational resources. "Life is already very difficult, so when people see something they can rely on, they tend to believe it quite easily," a Hopang Township resident told reporters, expressing concern that mainstream Christian congregations could face unfair fallout.
The crackdown echoes similar measures taken by the UWSA between 2018 and 2019, when the group closed dozens of churches, restricted public worship, and detained or deported several pastors across the territory.
