Dozens arrested in Pakistan over killing of Christian couple
| Publisher | Radio Free Europe/Radio Liberty |
| Publication Date | 5 November 2014 |
| Cite as | Radio Free Europe/Radio Liberty, Dozens arrested in Pakistan over killing of Christian couple, 5 November 2014, available at: https://www.refworld.org/docid/548ea83315.html [accessed 17 September 2023] |
| Disclaimer | This is not a UNHCR publication. UNHCR is not responsible for, nor does it necessarily endorse, its content. Any views expressed are solely those of the author or publisher and do not necessarily reflect those of UNHCR, the United Nations or its Member States. |
November 05, 2014
A man surveys the brick kiln where a Christian couple was cremated after being beaten to death in Pakistan for alleged blasphemy.
Pakistani police have arrested more than 40 suspects in connection with the killing of a Christian couple accused of desecrating the Koran.
Authorities say a Muslim mob beat Shehzad Masih and his wife, Shama, to death and burned their bodies on November 4 in the Punjab province town of Kot Radha Kishan, in the latest example of mob violence against minorities accused of blasphemy.
Prime Minister Nawaz Sharif called the murders "an unacceptable crime."
Punjab Chief Minister Shahbaz Sharif has formed a committee he says will fast-track the investigation and ordered police to beef up security in Christian neighborhoods.
Blasphemy is a hugely sensitive issue in the majority Muslim country, with even unproven allegations often prompting mob violence.
Based on reporting by Reuters, dawn.com, and the BBC
Link to original story on RFE/RL website