The metropolitan and provincial capitals of Pakistan i.e., Lahore and Quetta once again were brutally attacked by the extremist forces. The claim of suicide attack in Lahore killing 13 and injuring 53 was taken by Tehreek-i-Taliban Pakistan Jamaatul Ahrar. This banned group has warned the government of their new campaign against the government departments across the country.
Although the incident in Quetta has not been claimed by any of the terrorist groups, it has left 2 police officials killed and 11 injured.
His Lordship Bishop Dr. Joseph Arshad, Chairperson NCJP, Rev. Fr. Emmanuel Yousaf (Mani) National Director NCJP and Mr. Cecil S. Chaudhry Executive Director NCJP in a joint statement said that killing innocent protestors and security officials is unacceptable. While extending their condolences to the victims, they paid high respects and tribute to the slain officers and prayed for their families and the injured.
While the Prime Minister of Pakistan strongly condemned the attack, the commission calls upon the government to bring the perpetrators to justice and address extremist elements and root causes of this intolerance to tighten its measures for protection of all citizens and officials. Despite the high alert received the government failed in protecting its citizens and their own Police officials. The commission further demanded that all measures to ensure the true implementation of the National Action Plan must be a top priority of the government if it wishes to eradicate terrorism and extremism from the country. Furthermore the government must provide adequate equipment to the law enforcement personnel as they embark upon the risky and courageous task of diffusing explosive devices across the country.
Bishop Dr. Arshad and Fr. Yousaf further stated that the uncertainty of life is becoming more obvious in Pakistan. We thus pray to our Lord Jesus Christ that as a nation He may grant us wisdom, tolerance and peace. May God give strength to the families of the victims to endure the loss of their loved ones and speedy recovery for the injured.
NCJP Media Cell
