Churches vandalized in Faisalabad amid blasphemy allegations

Faisalabad:  A furious crowd wreaked havoc on multiple churches in the Jaranwala tehsil of Faisalabad on Wednesday, following allegations of blasphemy, according to local officials.

Social media images depicted smoke billowing from the church structures, while individuals put the  furniture on fire that had been pulled from the buildings. A  group of people obstructed a nearby highway.

Akmal Bhatti, a Christian leader, reported that the mob set fire to at least five churches and pillaged abandoned houses. The houses had been deserted by their occupants after mosque clerics allegedly incited the mob through announcements.

The recently appointed interim Prime Minister, Anwaarul Haq Kakar, vehemently denounced the acts of vandalism and pledged resolute action against those responsible for targeting minority communities.

I am gutted by the visuals coming out of Jaranwala,#Faisalabad. Stern action would be taken against those who violate law and target minorities. All law enforcement has been asked to apprehend culprits and bring them to justice. Rest assured that the government of Pakistan stands… https://t.co/GHWUGA1NNq

— Anwaar ul Haq Kakar (@anwaar_kakar) August 16, 2023

Imran Bhatti, a pastor from Jaranwala, revealed that the targeted churches encompassed the Salvation Army Church, United Presbyterian Church, Allied Foundation Church, and Shehroonwala Church. These places of worship are situated within the Isa Nagri locality. He further disclosed that the mob also razed the residence of a Christian custodian who faced allegations of blasphemy.