Release International

Taliban-inspired militants have attacked Christians in Karachi, sparking fears that Islamists are trying to extend Sharia law across Pakistan.

Masked militants raided Tanseer Town, a Christian neighbourhood of Karachi, beating residents and setting several homes ablaze. Two Christians, Imran Masih and Qadoos Masih, were badly injured.

The attack on the night of April 21-22 is widely seen as a sign that militants have been emboldened by the authorities' recent decision to hand over Swat Valley, North-West Frontier Province, to them in a ceasefire deal.

Release's partner in Pakistan has confirmed that police are now protecting the Christian community – but the situation remains tense. Seven people have been arrested.

Meanwhile, two older Christians – James Masih, 67, and 72-year-old Buta Masih – have been acquitted after serving two-and-a-half years in jail for alleged blasphemy. They were sentenced to ten years in November 2006 for allegedly burning pages of the Koran – but the High Court overturned their convictions on April 16. The men have always insisted the charges against them were fabricated due to a land dispute in which James was involved.

(Sources: AsiaNews, Compass Direct, Sharing Life Ministry Pakistan)

• Pray for physical and spiritual healing for Christians in Tanseer Town, Karachi.

• Thank God for the acquittal of James Masih and Buta Masih.

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