The police have arrested more than half of the suspects.
In Sargodha, Pakistan, Nazeer Masih Gill, a 74-year-old Christian man, was critically injured in a mob attack triggered by false blasphemy allegations. The incident began when an imam used a mosque’s loudspeaker to incite a crowd, claiming Gill had desecrated the Quran by burning wastepaper outside his home. This led to a violent reaction, where the mob vandalized his house and set his shoe factory on fire. Despite the attack, Gill is now in stable condition after undergoing head surgery.
Inspector Shahid Iqbal of the Sargodha Urban Police Station reported that Gill’s family is safe and currently housed in a government guesthouse for their protection. They will be allowed to return home once the situation calms down. Irfan Gill, Nazeer’s nephew, clarified that Nazeer had burned wastepaper without realizing that someone had thrown a Quran into the fire, which a neighbor falsely interpreted as an act of blasphemy.
The police have arrested 26 individuals and registered a case against numerous suspects, including both named and unidentified rioters, for their involvement in the violence. The charges against the rioters include attempted murder, obstruction of public officials, assault, and arson. Despite efforts by the police and local peace committee members to disperse the mob, the rioters managed to cause significant damage and injure several policemen during the rescue operation.
Inspector Iqbal defended the police actions, emphasizing that they had made every effort to control the mob and protect Gill. He acknowledged the positive role played by some Muslim residents and clerics in rescuing Gill’s family from potential harm. Iqbal dismissed criticisms that the police had not done enough, highlighting the injuries sustained by officers as proof of their commitment.
A blasphemy case has been filed against Nazeer Gill, with police assuring a fair and thorough investigation to ensure justice. Another police official, who wished to remain anonymous, noted that the local community generally regarded Gill and his family positively and believed they were not involved in religious conflicts. The official suggested that the incident might have been manipulated to target Gill, and expressed determination to uncover the truth and hold those responsible accountable.