The Coptic Orthodox Diocese of Central Giza announced that an unidentified non-Christian man entered the Church of the Virgin Mary in the village of Barak al-Khiyam, within the Diocese of Giza, at approximately 6:00 a.m. on Thursday, claiming that he had come to pray. He was carrying a bottle of gasoline concealed inside a bag.
In a statement signed by Bishop Theodosius of Giza, the diocese explained that the intruder broke down the door of a small chapel on the ground floor of the main church building. He then set fire to the church curtains, destroyed the lecterns, and burned the carpets.
The fire was brought under control, and no casualties were reported. The perpetrator was arrested, and security forces rushed to the church. Investigations are underway to determine his motives.
An eyewitness said that the suspect had entered the church without being challenged or having his identity checked. He stressed the need to strengthen security screening procedures at churches during this period, questioning how the man had been allowed to enter without any verification of his identity.
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