China: 18 crosses removed from churches by authorities this year

Just over a month into 2016 and Chinese authorities have already brought down 18 crosses across Zhejiang province.

According to a report by International Christian Concern, 13 crosses were removed in the past week across the province, which is known for its citizens who are devout Christians.

The sharp rise in the demolition of crosses is reportedly related to the recent dismissal of Pastor Gu "Joseph" Yuese, leader of the Chongyi Church, the Asian country's largest government-run Christian church.

China Aid reported that Pastor Gu was apprehended a few days ago, He was reportedly sent to a 'black jail', an undisclosed location where he is not allowed any connection with the outside world.

"His arrest marks a major escalation in the crackdown against those who oppose the forced demolition of crosses," said Bob Fu, president of China Aid.

"He will be the highest-ranking national church leader arrested since the Cultural Revolution," he noted.

Before he was dismissed and detained, Yuese had publicly opposed the demolition of church crosses.

Zhang Kai, a Chinese lawyer, is also among those who have stepped up in helping churches protect their crosses from removal was also detained in a 'black jail'.

Since 2013, Chinese authorities have forcibly removed around 1,500 crosses from both Protestant and Catholic churches, while around 400 church buildings were demolished. The rate slowed late last year after opposition of Gu and Zhang impeded efforts by authorities. 

China Aid also reported that both individuals were not allowed legal counsel, which is considered illegal in China.