Sialkot🇵🇰, May 12, 2025 — In a harrowing incident that has ignited widespread condemnation from human rights organizations and civil society, Kashif Masih, a 35 years old Christian man, was brutally tortured and murdered by Punjab Police Inspector Malik Irfan, along with his son and nephews. The crime occurred in the predominantly Christian neighborhood of Cheema Iqbal Chowk, located in village Banu under the jurisdiction of Police Station Moutra in Sialkot, Punjab, Pakistan.
According to the First Information Report (FIR No. 1798/25) filed on the same day, the assault took place in the early hours of the morning and was allegedly part of a “private investigation” led by Inspector Irfan and his relatives, in connection with a mobile phone theft.
The FIR, registered by the victim’s brother, reveals that Kashif Masih was forcibly detained by Inspector Irfan, his son, and nephews. What followed was an unspeakably brutal act of torture: Kashif’s ribs were broken, his head was severely injured, and in an act of sheer barbarity, nails were driven into his genitals and legs. He was rushed to the hospital but succumbed to his injuries soon after. A subsequent medical report confirmed extensive physical trauma and clear signs of torture across his entire body.
A Pattern of Impunity and Abuse of Power
This tragic incident has cast a grim spotlight on the misuse of power by law enforcement, particularly the unchecked violence directed at Pakistan’s religious minorities. Civil rights groups, Christian leaders, and human rights defenders have strongly condemned the killing and are calling for the immediate arrest and prosecution of all perpetrators under murder and anti-terrorism laws.
The FIR includes charges under Section 302 (murder), Section 148 (rioting with deadly weapons), and Section 149 (unlawful assembly with common purpose) of the Pakistan Penal Code. The investigation has been transferred to the Homicide Investigation Unit (HIU) under case number LHC/1291.
Urgent Calls for Justice
Activists and community leaders are urging the Punjab government and the Inspector General of Police to take swift and decisive action. There are growing demands for transparent investigation, arrest of all accused, and assurance of protection for the victim’s grieving family.
“This is not just an isolated crime—it reflects a larger pattern of systemic abuse and state negligence. Justice for Kashif Masih must be immediate, uncompromising, and exemplary,” stated a prominent Christian rights advocate.
Standing in Solidarity
As the Christian community mourns yet another preventable tragedy, voices across Pakistan and beyond are calling for an end to the culture of impunity that allows such brutality to occur—especially against vulnerable and marginalized groups.
The killing of Kashif Masih is a chilling reminder that accountability must not be optional. The world is watching. Justice delayed is justice denied.
For more updates and detailed coverage of this case and other issues affecting the Hindu and Sindhi communities in Sindh, Pakistan, stay tuned to Sindh Renaissance.
