Muslim mobs have torched churches in Pakistan after two locals were accused of desecrating the Koran, violating blasphemy laws.
The violence erupted after torn pages of the sacred text with insulting remarks allegedly scribbled on them were found near a Christian community in Jaranwala, eastern Pakistan.
Local authorities said five churches and dozens of houses were set ablaze as thousands of rioters, led by local clerics, rampaged through the city carrying iron rods and knives, forcing Christians living there to flee.
Footage of flames and smoke billowing from buildings and people tearing a crucifix from a church was shared widely on social media.
The rioters were demanding that the two accused men, brothers who have fled their homes, be handed over to them. » | Samaan Lateef in New Delhi | Thursday, August 17, 2023
