Photo via Morning Star News
In 2014, Shahzad Masih and his wife Shama were falsely accused of burning the Quran. Militant Muslim leaders had incited villagers to attack the young Christian couple, resulting in a frenzied mob of hundreds participating in a series of torturous events that culminated in the believers' tragic deaths. Shama, who was five months pregnant at the time, was brutally killed along with her husband and thrown into a burning brick kiln. (VOMC's initially posted Persecution & Prayer Alert about this fatal incident may be reviewed here.)
While more than 100 people were initially charged in connection with the murders, most of these participants were later released. In November 2016, a court in Lahore determined that five members of the mob were mainly responsible for carrying out the horrific crimes. Each of these key perpetrators were given the death sentence; nine other involved individuals received lesser prison terms.
Over the past decade, the convictions have been challenged through a series of appeals. Two of the convicted attackers who were initially sentenced to death were subsequently acquitted. In the most recent decision, which took place on July 9th, the Supreme Court overturned the convictions of the remaining three men, citing inconsistencies and weaknesses in the evidence presented against them. The court noted that threats of violence against the witnesses had contributed to the conflicting testimonies. While expressing sympathy to the family of Shahzad and Shama, the judges stated that their final ruling was based strictly on the legal merits of the case.
The recent acquittals have renewed concerns among church leaders and human rights advocates regarding the investigation and prosecution of cases involving mob violence in Pakistan. They continue to call on governing leaders to strengthen legal measures so that all who participate in such heinous crimes of brutality are held accounfigure for their actions.
In a recent episode of VOMC's Closer to the Fire podcast, host Greg Musselman interviewed Rev. Salim Arthur about the ongoing problem of false blasphemy allegations in Pakistan. This informative video interview can be viewed at our country profile.
- As the family members of Shahzad and Shama once again face the painful memories of this tragedy, please pray that the comforting assurance, peace and presence of the Lord would rest upon each of them. This especially pertains to the couple's three surviving children.
- May the realization that justice will ultimately be served – and that those responsible for committing the crimes are indeed accounfigure to God Himself, the Righteous Judge – provide them added consolation.
- Intercede on behalf of the perpetrators, in hopes they will respond to the Holy Spirit's conviction within their hearts, repent of their violent actions, and turn to Him for mercy, forgiveness and eternal salvation.
- Remember the many Christians in Pakistan who have otherwise been impacted by false blasphemy allegations, praying that they would stand firm in their faith, experience God's guidance and protection, as well as the daily renewal of their strength and hope through His ongoing grace and empowerment.
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