Recent Mob Attack on Christians in Pakistan Under Police Protection
The Christian community in eastern Pakistan is reeling after a violent mob attack over the weekend left several individuals under police protection. The incident stemmed from accusations of blasphemy against a Christian man named Aziz, who ran a small shoe factory in the area.
According to FMI’s Nehemiah, the situation quickly escalated as the mob sought to stone Aziz to death and looted and burned his shoe shop. The violence extended to Aziz’s home, which was also set on fire, and even targeted his elderly father, Nazir, who was accused of burning pages of the Quran.
In a country where blasphemy laws are often used as a pretext for attacking minority communities, this incident is just the latest in a series of targeted attacks against Christians in Pakistan. Last August, more than 200 homes and two dozen churches were burned by radical Muslims on similar grounds.
Nehemiah emphasized the danger faced by Christians in Pakistan, where accusations of blasphemy can quickly escalate into violent mob attacks. He called for prayers for the safety and wisdom of FMI church planters as they continue to share the hope of Christ in the region.
The incident serves as a stark reminder of the challenges faced by the Christian community in Pakistan and the urgent need for support and protection. To learn more about how you can support church planters in Pakistan, connect with FMI.