Muridke: What should have been a night of joy and celebration turned into tragedy on Christmas Eve when a Christian man, Sarfraz Masih, was brutally shot dead in Muridke, Punjab.
According to police and eyewitness accounts, the incident occurred on the night of December 24, 2025, when members of the Christian community were making arrangements for Christmas celebrations on the rooftop of a house. During the preparations, an altercation reportedly broke out over a minor issue. Following the dispute, Muhammad Faisal, along with his accomplices, allegedly opened fire on Sarfraz Masih.
Sarfraz Masih was shot in the mouth and sustained critical injuries. He was immediately rushed to the Tehsil Headquarters (THQ) Hospital, where doctors pronounced him dead. Witnesses stated that the suspects fled the scene while firing indiscriminately, creating panic in the neighborhood.
The killing cast a shadow of grief and fear over the local Christian community, for whom Christmas Eve is a time of peace, worship, and family gatherings. “Joy was replaced by mourning in a matter of moments,” said a local resident, adding that the incident has deeply shaken the community.
Following the incident, relatives of the deceased and members of the Christian community staged a protest outside the hospital, demanding the immediate arrest of the accused and justice for the victim. Protesters condemned the violence and called on law enforcement agencies to ensure the safety of religious minorities.
Sarfraz Masih, the deceased, was the father of three children and the sole breadwinner of his family. His family members described him as a peaceful man whose life was taken over a trivial dispute.
Police officials confirmed that a case has been registered against the accused and that raids are underway to arrest Muhammad Faisal and his accomplices. “We are actively searching for the suspects, and they will be brought to justice,” a police spokesperson said.
Human rights activists and community leaders have also condemned the killing, urging authorities to conduct a transparent investigation and take strict action against those responsible. They stressed that such incidents not only rob families of their loved ones but also instill fear among minority communities.
As the accused remain at large, the family of Sarfraz Masih continues to await justice, hoping that those responsible for turning a festive night into a nightmare will soon be held accountable.
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.
