Mussie Ezaz

Name: Mussie Ezaz

Country/Area of Origin: Eritrea

Background: Ezaz is an evangelist pastor and youth leader that was active in the Eritrean capital of Asmara prior to his detention. He had worked for 14 years preaching and leading the Kale Hiwot Church of Eritrea and its youth ministry.

Reason for Arrest:

Ezaz was first arrested in September 2007 by authorities regarding his work as a youth minister; he was subsequently taken to a small village prison that was run by young Eritrean soldiers. He was able to escape from the prison and immediately called his family to tell them goodbye, as he planned to escape Eritrea by crossing the border. However, authorities caught up to him during his attempted flee and detained him once again.

For a while after Ezaz’s re-arrest, his family – including his wife and three young sons – had no idea regarding his whereabouts or safety. Many Eritrean Christians had worried that he had been killed, but it was later revealed that he was imprisoned at Wengel Mermera Central Criminal Investigation Interrogation Center. Ezaz has no formal charges against him.

Latest Updates:

  • Ezaz’s family still is unsure whether he is safe and healty.