Vehari, Punjab: In a shocking and brutal incident, 32-year-old unmarried Christian man Asif Raza, who was engaged and preparing to get married soon, was tortured and later died following an attack by a Muslim extremist group in Munwar Town Bhatta, Daniwal, District Vehari, Punjab. 

According to the First Information Report (FIR No. 979/25) filed at Police Station Daniwal, the attack occurred around 7:00 PM while Asif was returning home. Near the Daniwal graveyard, Asif was ambushed by a group of seven assailants, including three identified individuals—Azan, Wahab, and Hanan—along with four others yet to be identified. The attackers, reportedly affiliated with the Muhammad Wahab group, stopped Asif forcibly and subjected him to a vicious assault, repeatedly beating him with bricks, focusing mainly on his head. 

The FIR indicates the attack was unprovoked and motivated by religious hatred, as Asif was targeted due to his Christian faith and perceived vulnerability linked to his socio-economic status. Despite being rushed for medical treatment, Asif succumbed to his severe injuries. 

Police have arrested Wahab, identified as the main culprit behind the attack. Authorities are continuing investigations to locate and apprehend the other suspects involved. 

The Christian community in Vehari has expressed deep shock and grief over the incident. Asif’s family has demanded justice and urged authorities to take immediate and firm action to safeguard religious minorities. 

Pastor Imran Amanat, national leader of LEAD Ministries Pakistan, condemned the attack, describing it as a "targeted act of hatred rooted in religious intolerance." He stated, “This was not just a killing—it was a brutal message to an already marginalized community. We demand justice for Asif Raza and protection for all religious minorities in Pakistan.” 

Pastor Imran also called upon the Christian community and international human rights organizations to pray for Asif’s family and raise awareness about the rising threat of religious extremism in the country. 

This tragic incident underscores the ongoing challenges faced by religious minorities in Pakistan, particularly Christians, who remain vulnerable to violence, discrimination, and a lack of justice. The case raises urgent questions about the safety and rights of minority communities amid growing sectarian tensions.