Pakistan: Christian community launches protest against killing of two Christians
What's the story
Leaders of the Christian community have launched a protest against the killing of two Christians near a church by four unidentified gunmen who opened fire at them in Pakistan's Balochistan province. Provincial police Chief Moazzam Jah Ansari said, "Two people were killed on the spot while six others were injured and rushed to a hospital." The attack was claimed by Islamic State terror group.
Purpose of attack
Attack was aimed to spread panic and fear in province
The deceased were identified as Azhar Masih and Rohail Masih, the residents of Essa Nagri which houses a large population of the Christian community. Ansari said that it appeared that the purpose of the attack was to spread panic and fear in the province. Christian community wants the immediate arrest of attackers. They also urged government for the protection of Christian community in Quetta.
Previous episodes
Pakistan has been battling with armed groups
Pakistan has been battling armed groups, including the Tehreek-e-Taliban Pakistan (TTP). The attacks often target Pakistan's minorities, including Shia Muslims as well as Christians, Hindus, and members of the Ahmadiyya sect. Earlier this month, four members of a Christian family were killed in a firing incident. In December 2017, nine people killed and 30 injured in a suicide attack on Bethel Memorial Methodist Church.