Most Suspects in 2023 Anti-Christian Rampage in Pakistan Remain Free, Amnesty Reports

A report from Amnesty International reveals that over 90% of suspects involved in the 2023 anti-Christian rampage in Jaranwala, Pakistan, remain at large, said Arab News yesterday.

The violence erupted after allegations that a local Christian desecrated pages of the Qur’an, resulting in attacks on churches and homes. Of the 5,213 accused, only 380 were arrested, while 4,833 remain unaccounted for. Among those arrested, 228 have been released on bail, and 77 had charges dropped. Trials for the suspects have not yet begun, and about 40% of victims who lost property are still awaiting government compensation.

Despite police claims that cases have been referred to an anti-terrorism court, Amnesty’s deputy regional director criticized the lack of adequate action, allowing a climate of impunity to persist. Blasphemy accusations in Pakistan frequently incite mob violence, leaving victims, including Christians, in a state of fear, as noted by local priest Yaqoob Yousaf.