Murder Victim's Family Members Face Threats

Farhan Ul Qamar is sitting on some steps.
Farhan Ul Qamar
Photo: Morning Star News

On November 9th, a 20-year-old Christian student named Farhan Ul Qamar was killed in his family's home by a man known for his hatred towards Christians and Jews. The attack is believed to have occurred as a result of religious tensions escalated by the violence in Gaza. For details on Farhan's murder, go to this page.

After the attack, Muhammad Zubair confessed to the killing, though he claimed to have mistaken Farhan for one of two brothers who had earlier expressed support for Israel. In court, however, Muhammad later retracted his confession. Since the incident, the family members of the murdered student have faced threats, demanding that they drop all charges against Muhammad.

On March 18th, six men held the Christians at gunpoint, warning that they would all be killed unless a settlement is reached and the accused killer is released. Thankfully, another family member living nearby was able to call the police who subsequently arrested the intruders. However, local authorities released the men after warning them to not intimidate the family again. Though shaken, and despite ongoing warnings to drop all charges, the family is determined to pursue justice for Farhan.

In the midst of the threats against Farhan's family members, may the Lord provide each of them His divine protection. And as they continue to grieve the tragic loss of their precious loved one, pray that the peace of God, which surpasses all understanding, will guard their hearts and minds. Ultimately, may the Lord's mercy and justice prevail, not only in Farhan's case, but also in the lives of other potentially hostile community members. Keeping this in mind, please intercede for all those in this South Asian country who desperately need a revelation of God's tremendous love for them. As a result, may they seek to live in peace and harmony with Him and the members of their communities.

  • Current Ministry Projects

    VOMC partners to train Christian women in sewing skills throughout Pakistan to provide a sustainable source of income for their families and encourage them in their faith and witness for Christ.

    Project Funds: Families of Martyrs, Women’s Ministry

  • Country Information

    Population
    247,653,551 (2023 est.)

    Ethnicity (%)
    Punjabi (44.7), Pashtun [Pathan] (15.4), Sindhi (14.1), Saraiki (8.4) Muhajirs (7.6) Balochi (3.6), Other (6.3)

    Religion (%)
    Islam (96.5), Other - Christian and Hindu (3.5)

    Leader
    President Asif Ali Zardari (2024)

    Government type
    Federal parliamentary republic

    Legal system
    Common law system with Islamic law influence

    Source: CIA World Factbook

  • Pray for Pakistan

    Pray that amendments will be made to Pakistan's existing blasphemy laws so that the country's citizens – including its children – will be protected from injustice and abuse. May our Lord's mercy and justice prevail, not only in the judiciary system but also in the hearts of the country's militants. Ask Him to transform their "hearts of stone" into hearts that are receptive to His love, mercy and the workings of His Holy Spirit – not only for the purpose of protecting the Christian minority but also for the salvation of their own eternal souls.

Pakistan News

  • Blasphemy Conviction for Online Posts
    Furniture and possessions are strewn on a street. Some of them are burning.
    The riots in 2023.
    Photo: Morning Star News

    In August 2023, the Christian colony of Jaranwala was filled with violence after allegations of blasphemy were made against two brothers. During the rampage, as many as 400 homes and 26 church buildings were damaged or destroyed. For more details, and to view video footage of the attacks, see this page.

  • Wife of Nazir Masih Dies of a Heart Attack
    Naseem and Nazir
    Naseem and Nazir
    Photo: Morning Star News
     

    In May, shocking images of mob violence were revealed after 74-year-old Nazir Masih was falsely accused of burning pages from the Quran. The elderly Christian man was fatally wounded during the resulting mob violence, which also led to the destruction of his shoemaking business, along with several attacks against other Christians. Further details on the violent rampage are available here.