A Norwegian national and six British citizens were arrested on Thursday in West Sumatra, Indonesia, for allegedly promoting deviant religious beliefs centered around the Mahdi, a messianic figure in Islam.
The Norwegian, identified as Osama, 35, also known as Muhammad Bin Abdullah, claimed he traveled to Indonesia to pledge allegiance to Muhammad Qosim, who is believed by the group to be the Mahdi.
Local authorities detained the group, and they have since been handed over to immigration officers. Indonesian officials condemned their activities and issued warnings to the public about the dangers of following such beliefs.
Source: Jakarta Globe
