500 named in FIR for allegedly trying to lynch Christian man in Sargohda over blasphemy allegations

Around 500 suspects have been named in the first information report (FIR) for allegedly trying to lynch a Christian man in Punjab’s Sargodha over alleged desecration of the Holy Quran on Saturday.

The FIR, registered at the Urban Area Police Station, was registered under sections 324 (attempt to commit qatl-i-amd), 186 (obstructing public servant in discharge of public functions), 353 (assault or criminal force to deter public servant from discharge of his duty), 436 (mischief by fire or explosive substance with intent to destroy house, etc), 440 (mischief committed after preparation made for causing death or hurt), 148 (rioting, armed with deadly weapon), and 149 (every member of unlawful assembly guilty of offence committed in prosecution of common object).

The complaint also invoked Section 7 (punishment for acts of terrorism) of the Anti-Terrorism Act.

Videos circulating on social media showed large crowds of attackers torturing the man and burning his home.

A bystander filmed the scene said that the mob accused the two Christian men of burning and desecrating the Holy Quran. 

District Police Officer (DPO) Khushab, and Regional Police Officer (RPO) Shariq Kamal Siddiqui, along with members of the peace committee and a large police contingent, arrived at the scene. 

He confirmed the incident.