Quetta church attack: Christian leaders condemn terrorsim

LAHORE: Archbishop Dr Joseph Arshad, Director Rev Fr Emmanuel Yousaf (Mani) and Executive Director Cecil S Chaudhry, in a joint statement, condemned the inhuman attack on the church and the worshippers in Quetta.

They extended their condolences to the victim families. They prayed for the victims and their families. They also appreciated the timely response of the police and security forces who helped secure the lives of nearly 400 worshipers present in the church.

They called upon the government to bring the perpetrators to justice and address the extremist elements and root causes of intolerance. They stressed the need to tighten measures for protection of all citizens, especially during Christmas. They also requested the community to cooperate with the officials and extend their services for the security of people during Christmas.

They demanded true implementation of the Supreme Court judgment of June 19, 2014 and National Action Plan (NAP) for eradication of terrorism and extremism from the country. Furthermore, the government was requested to help provide training to the local church volunteers to manage emergency situations.

Quetta, the provincial capital of Balochistan, was once again brutally attacked by the extremist forces on the third Sunday of Advent at Bethel Memorial Church on Zarghoon Road. Over eight people were killed and 20 injured in the attack. No terrorist group has claimed responsibility for the attack so far.