Police detained six members of the Early Rain Covenant Church on Tuesday in Chengdu, southwest China, according to church statements and rights groups. Premier Christian News, citing Reuters and non-governmental organisations, reported the arrests. Authorities did not explain why they detained the individuals or whether they faced any charges.
Police also apprehended the current church leader, Li Yingqiang, and searched his home. Church representatives said attempts to contact the faith community via social media were unsuccessful. The Chengdu Public Security Bureau did not respond to requests for comment.
Law enforcement described the arrests as part of a broader crackdown on unregistered religious groups. Advocacy organisations said scrutiny has increased in recent months as officials enforce regulations requiring faith communities to operate under state supervision. Local authorities have restricted underground congregations, curbing fundraising, online sermons, and in-person worship.
Human Rights Watch urged the government to release the detainees and allow them to exercise their religion freely. Reports indicate that more than 44 million Christians worship in state-approved churches in China. Tens of millions more attend unofficial house churches.
Rights groups said authorities previously raided the Early Rain Covenant Church in 2018 and later sentenced its founder, Wang Yi, to nine years in prison.