Christian Killed After Advocating for Harassed Victims

Marshall Masih, a Christian father of four, was gunned down by four men from his neighbourhood in the city of Lahore during the early hours of July 10th. Marshall (who was also known as Bunty) had previously filed a police complaint against two Muslim neighbours, named Shani and Azam, because they had been harassing Christian women in the area and shooting their guns into the air. In retaliation, the two men broke into Marshall's home with the help of two other local Muslims and shot the young father 15 times.

The killing has left an entire family without support, as Marshall was the sole provider for his wife and children, as well as his elderly parents. Following the devastating attack, his sister Goshi stated, "The Muslims were offended that a Christian had taken a stance against their criminal activities and, by killing him in cold blood, they have shown that our lives do not matter."

While police are presently investigating the incident, no arrests have been made at the time of publishing this report. Christians in the community have protested the lack of response from the authorities, stating that the attackers are known drug dealers who had recently been released from jail. Investigations for crimes against followers of Jesus in Pakistan are frequently delayed or dismissed due to pressure from militant Muslim community members. For other reports on the maltreatment of Christians in Pakistan, go to our country information.

Please prayerfully uphold Marshall's wife, Mehdi, along with his children, sisters and parents as they deal with the sudden loss of this young man, asking the Lord to minister peace, protection and comfort in each of their lives. May the local authorities actively pursue justice against those responsible for this senseless tragedy. As for the difficult financial situation the victim's loved ones are now experiencing, pray that our Heavenly Father will abundantly provide for their daily practical needs, as well as provisions of spiritual strength, healing and the grace to forgive the perpetrators of the crime.