A Christian Colony in Pakistan’s Lahore city was attacked and many houses burnt on Saturday by a strong mob, following reports that a Christian man had committed blasphemy.
Islamabad, March 9/Nationalturk – An irate mob of hundreds of people attacked a Christian Colony in Pakistan’s Lahore city on Saturday and burnt many houses, following reports that a Christian man had committed blasphemy.
“The mob stormed the colony and burnt the homes of Christians today. The mob pulled furniture, household goods and utensils out of the homes and smashed and burnt them in the streets,” media reports said.
They said more than 40 houses were set ablaze by the mob. “Two senior police officers were also injured when the mob pelted stones on a police party “.
Cases registered against those involved in vandalism: Minister
Punjab’s Law Minister Rana Sanaullah told Pakistan TV channel Express News that he saw no reason for the mob’s violence especially after the person accused of blasphemy had been arrested on Friday. “The cases have been registered by police against those responsible for today’s vandalism and that they will be prosecuted”.
He said all those persons, whose property has been damaged will be compensated within five days.
Earlier, a strong mob had yesterday forced the Christian community to flee for their lives, leaving behind their houses and possessions unprotected.
According to Pakistan newspaper, Express Tribune, the charged group had gathered around Joseph Colony on Noor Road in Lahore and was led by Shafiq Ahmed. “The mob was in search of the accused Savan, alias Bubby, who had allegedly committed blasphemy by insulting the Prophet Muhammad (PBUH),” it said.
It further said the mob then attacked Savan’s house, setting it on fire and pelting it with stones. “Other houses in the locality – home to about 150 Christian families – were also attacked. Many residents, including women and children, hastily fled to save themselves,” the newspaper said adding Savan was arrested and shifted to an undisclosed location.
Meanwhile, Pakistan President Asif Ali Zardari has taken strong note of the incident and sought a detailed report from the authorities.
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Faiz Ahmad / NationalTurk Pakistan News
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