Pakistan: A Christian pastor who had already survived an extremist attack just two months ago in Islamabad was tragically shot by an unknown assailant in Gujranwala, where he had recently sought safety for himself and his family. Despite desperate efforts by doctors, he succumbed to his injuries, leaving the Christian community across Pakistan shaken and heartbroken. His killing has reignited deep fears among already vulnerable believers, while his devastated family struggles to comprehend the loss of a man who risked everything to serve God and his people. BACA has visited the bereaved family, standing with them in their grief and providing vital financial support in their darkest hour. 

Pastor Kamran attending an AWANA event as part of the International Pastor Leadership Conference 

A Pastor’s Final Sacrifice: Faithful Servant Killed After Fleeing Extremist Threats 

On 5th December, Pastor Kamran Salamat (45) was shot by an unidentified assailant outside his residence in Islam Colony, Sialkot Road, Gujranwala. He was rushed to Civil Hospital Gujranwala, but despite the tireless efforts of the medical team, Pastor Kamran succumbed to his injuries during treatment. He leaves behind his widow and three children. 

The attack has triggered a new wave of fear and insecurity among Christians throughout the country. 

BACA’s team travelled to Gujranwala to stand in solidarity with the grieving family and contributed towards Pastor Kamran’s funeral expenses. 

Pastor Shahzad Salman, brother-in-law of the deceased, shared the details of the attack with BACA. He explained that the incident occurred around 9:00 am, when Pastor Kamran came downstairs with his daughter Numeer to drive her to college. An unknown assailant on a motorcycle approached and opened fire at close range, striking him in the right wrist, left ear, and lower abdomen. Pastor Kamran collapsed on the road. 

In an act of remarkable courage, Numeer struck the gunman with her father’s crutch, prompting him to flee the scene. 

Pastor Kamran was transported by the 1122 Rescue Team to Civil Hospital Gujranwala, where he received emergency treatment but unfortunately could not survive. He passed away around 12:00 pm, and his body was later handed over to the family after post-mortem examination. 

Police reached the scene promptly and collected evidence, including CCTV footage. The attacker, described as having a long beard, has been identified by Numeer. A First Information Report has been filed under Section 324 of the Pakistan Penal Code. 

Pastor Shahzad further revealed that Pastor Kamran previously served as a minister at the Church of Pentecostal in Islamabad. He was also Chairman of the Pastor’s Alliance Islamabad, supervising a network of around 200 pastors. 

Pastor Kamran was well-known as a committed social activist who advocated for the rights of Christians in the capital. 
“He used to support members of the Christian community in his area,” Pastor Shahzad told BACA. 

Two months ago, religious extremists targeted him in Islamabad and shot him, but the bullet struck his right leg, sparing his life. He received treatment at GHQ and Holy Family Hospital, Rawalpindi. Following his recovery, Pastor Shahzad urged him to relocate to Gujranwala with his family for safety. 

Pastor Kamran moved—but he did not stop ministering to his church members. 
“He would travel to Islamabad every Saturday for Sunday service at the Church of Pentecostal,” Pastor Shehzad Suleman told BACA. 
“He was very brave and always said he did not care for his life while serving God—and today he has proved it.” 

Pastor Shahzad expressed gratitude to BACA for their support, saying: 
“I am thankful to BACA for standing with us in this hour of sadness and for helping us financially.” 

Pastor Kamran is survived by his wife Salmina Kamran, daughters Numeer (16) and Arina (11), and son Ariel (14). 

His funeral rites were held on 6th December 2025 at Saint Paul Presbyterian Church, Sialkot Road, Gujranwala, where a large gathering came together to honour his life and dedicated service. The British Asian Christian Association stepped in to cover all expenses related to the funeral. 

Family and friends gather to mourn the loss of a devoted pastor, committed to spreading God’s word and nurturing the spiritual growth of His people. 

The tragic loss of Pastor Kamran has left his widow and three young children facing an uncertain future, struggling to cope without their main breadwinner. The British Asian Christian Association (BACA) is appealing to all supporters and friends of justice to help the family at this critical time. Your contribution of just £1,000 can provide immediate relief, covering essential living costs, education, and daily necessities for the children while they mourn the devastating loss of their father. 

In addition, BACA seeks to raise £2,000 to secure a solicitor to ensure a proper and transparent investigation into Pastor Kamran’s murder, as local authorities have shown reluctance to act. As Juliet Chowdhry, BACA’sTrustee , has stated: 

“Pastor Kamran’s murder is part of a disturbing pattern of extrajudicial killings targeting Christians in Pakistan. We remember the assassination of Federal Minister Shahbaz Bhatti for defending minorities, the two brothers shot outside a court after being acquitted in a blasphemy trial, and countless others who have been silenced simply for their faith. We cannot allow impunity to prevail — justice must be pursued, and families like Pastor Kamran’s must be supported.”