Pakistan: Court Orders Arrest of Muslim Clerics Who Started Mob that Killed Christian Couple

Two Muslim clerics that started a mob which led to the beating, killing and burning of a Christian couple are facing arrest. Pakistan’s Supreme Court made the decision to arrest the individuals. 

Additionally, the court ordered the five police officers to face disciplinary action for not intervening as the mob tortured and killed the couple. 

Christians Sheathed and Shamah Masih were accused of defiling the Quran in early November. The accusation prompted a mob of 500-600 people to beat the couple, eventually throwing them into a brick kiln and burning their bodies. 

The couple had four children. Shamah Masih was also pregnant at the time. 

Police have charged 138 people with torturing the Christians and have 59 in custody related to the crime. 

The court has ordered further investigation of the incident; the case will be continue to be evaluated on Jan. 15. 

Publication date: December 18, 2014