Hafizabad, Punjab - April 15, 2025- A horrifying incident has shaken the Christian community in Qila Sahib Singh, a neighborhood in Hafizabad, Punjab, where poisoned sweets were reportedly distributed among Christian children by an unidentified individual. The attack, which occurred on April 14, 2025, at approximately 6:30 PM, has tragically claimed the lives of three children, while five others remain hospitalized in critical condition.

According to eyewitnesses, an unknown man arrived in the area on a three-wheeler and handed out sweets specifically to Christian children. Shortly after consuming the sweets, the children began showing signs of severe illness. Alarmed residents attempted to intervene, but the suspect fled the scene before he could be apprehended.

Local authorities have registered a case under FIR No. 756/25 at City Police Station Hafizabad, citing charges including murder and attempted murder. Police investigations are currently underway to identify and apprehend the individual responsible.

Christian community leaders believe the attack was religiously motivated, potentially linked to extremist groups known for targeting religious minorities in Pakistan. The timing of the attack—so close to Easter—has heightened concerns of further targeted violence during the Christian holy season.

“This was not a random act,” said Pastor Imran Amanat, a leader with LEAD Ministries, a Christian advocacy organization. “This was a deliberate attempt to harm our children and our community. We demand immediate action from the authorities and full protection for Christians during this vulnerable time.”

Sardar Mushtaq Gill, founder of LEAD Ministries, also condemned the attack, calling it “a heinous act of religiously motivated violence.” He emphasized the need for urgent government intervention to prevent further tragedies.

LEAD Ministries has urged the Christian community to remain vigilant and united in prayer. “Our hearts are heavy as we mourn the loss of these innocent lives,” said Pastor Amanat. “We ask the global Christian community to join us in prayer—prayers for comfort, for healing, and for justice.”

This tragic event has reignited calls for stronger legal protections and security measures for Pakistan’s Christian minority, which has frequently faced discrimination, threats, and violence.

As the investigation continues, the Christian community in Hafizabad—and across Pakistan—waits for justice, and for meaningful action to ensure such violence is never repeated.