Christian minorities in Pakistan face reports of abduction and assault

Reports have emerged regarding targeted violence and intimidation against members of the Christian community in Pakistan.

In Sheikhupura, a 14-year-old Christian boy was allegedly lured by an offer of work, only to be confined, physically assaulted, and sexually abused by multiple individuals. While two suspects were reportedly apprehended by residents and handed to police, the family claims they are now facing threats to withdraw their complaint. Concerns have also been raised regarding delays in the registration of the official police report.

In Lahore, a Christian cable technician, Washaal Masih, reported being abducted and assaulted by three men. Masih alleges that the attackers used a firearm to threaten him and demand that he renounce Christianity to convert to Islam. Following the incident, Masih reported that police allegedly declined to properly register the case, leading advocacy groups to call for increased protection for religious minorities and better access to justice.