JAI

A pastor is being held in judicial custody in Myanmar (Burma) after appearing in court in the city of Yangon accused of breaching coronavirus control rules.

Canadian-Burmese pastor David Lah held multiple religious gatherings in Yangon after the regional government had banned all mass meetings on 13 March.

More than 70 people have been infected after attending religious events in Myanmar, accounting for about 40% of all confirmed cases in the country. Mr Lah has said there will be no infections among true followers of Jesus. However, the pastor – who is popular with celebrities – has himself recovered after testing positive for Covid-19.

If found guilty, he could be jailed for up to three years. Three other people were charged along with the pastor.