Tighter security urged after imam's death
The killing of an imam from China's largest mosque in Kashgar, the Xinjiang Uygur autonomous region, has shocked Islamic religious leaders around the region and prompted calls on Friday for tighter security at mosques.
Three people allegedly attacked and killed Juma Tayier after he performed a routine prayer at sunrise in Id Kah, the biggest and most influential mosque in Xinjiang, at 6:58 am on Wednesday. Two suspects were shot dead and one was arrested, local police said.
More than 107 religious leaders around Xinjiang gathered in the capital, Urumqi, on Friday to condemn the violent attack and pray for Juma. The 74-year-old was the deputy president of the China Islamic Association and well respected by its followers. In a letter of condolence, the association said Muslims were not responsible for the slaying.
