Sargodha, Pakistan – At least five members of the minority Christian community had to be rescued in eastern Pakistan’s Sargodha district after a radical Muslim mob attacked their settlements. The incident stemmed from accusations of blasphemy against the Christian residents, leading to chaos and violence in the area.
Police Chief Shariq Kamal reported that the mob not only targeted the Christian group but also attacked the police forces attempting to restore order. Five Christians sustained injuries and were promptly taken to a nearby hospital for treatment. In response to the escalating situation, a large police contingent cordoned off the settlement and pushed back the aggressive crowd.
During the unrest, the mob set fire to a house and a small shoe factory, fueling further chaos and destruction. Allegations of desecration of the Quran by a member of the minority community triggered the violent rampage, with protesters looting and setting items ablaze in the streets.
The Independent Human Rights Commission of Pakistan condemned the incident, highlighting the grave risk faced by the Christian community from the charged mob. Blasphemy accusations in Pakistan often escalate into street violence, with the act punishable by death, though no state executions have occurred as of now.
In response to the incident, 25 mobsters were detained by authorities, with additional police units deployed throughout the city to ensure the safety of all residents. The accused individual involved in the Quran desecration allegations is alive and receiving medical treatment at a hospital.
Despite the tense situation, the prompt action of the Sargodha police helped avert a greater tragedy, with no loss of life reported. The police risked their lives to rescue families from the crowd, ultimately restoring peace and control in the city. Divisional Commissioner Muhammad Ajmal Bhatti assured a transparent investigation into the matter.
The incident underscores the ongoing challenges surrounding religious tensions and blasphemy allegations in Pakistan, prompting a critical examination of the underlying issues and the need for greater protection of minority communities in the country.