By Stefan J. Bos, Chief International Correspondent Worthy News
JARANWALA, PAKISTAN (Worthy News) - More Muslim protests and strikes were expected Saturday in eastern Pakistan, more than a week after churches and Christian homes were torched and vandalized, well-informed sources tell Worthy News.
“They want that no more help should be given to Christians in the city of Jaranwala,” where on August 16, an angry Muslim mob attacked a Christian community, said human rights activist Farrukh Saif. “They are demanding the release of 160 people who were detained for their involvement in the violence.”
Saif is cofounder of the Emergency Committee to Save the Persecuted and Enslaved, which plans to support dozens of families in the area.
“My team is there with the means to support the 50 families in the first phase. But due to rising tension, we are postponing our event for a few days,” he added.
Christians earlier told Worthy News about their fear of returning home. Police have stepped up security, but tensions remain high in the region, according to witnesses.
The August 16 violence broke out after two Christian brothers allegedly desecrated the Koran, deemed a holy book by Muslims in this Islamic nation.
Hundreds of Christians fled, though at least some have since returned.