Sargodha, Pakistan: A 15-year-old Christian boy, Shamraiz Masih, who was initially reported missing, is now believed by his family to be in the custody of Muslim individuals in Sargodha, Punjab, raising urgent concerns about forced conversion. 

According to the First Information Report (FIR No. 625/25) filed at Police Station Urban Area Sargodha on July 22, 2025, by the boy’s brother, Sahil Masih, Shamraiz left his home in Sultan Town, Street No. 3, near Samuel Memorial Church, on Monday, July 21, around 2:00 PM to purchase household items and did not return. After extensive searches, the family has learned that he is reportedly with five suspects, including individuals named Tuheed, Rehman, and Munir. 

The FIR was registered under Section 365 of the Pakistan Penal Code, which deals with abduction. Police have launched an investigation, but no arrests had been made as of July 23. 

Rehana Imran, the boy’s mother and a Christian widow, alleges that her son was abducted by Muslim individuals and forcibly converted to Islam. She has appealed publicly for help, saying, “He is only 15. I have been denied contact with him, and authorities have not taken meaningful action. I beg the government, civil society, and Muslim community leaders to help bring my son back.” 

Pastor Imran Amanat, leader of LEAD Ministries, urged the Pakistani government and relevant authorities to ensure justice is served and the boy is safely returned. “We call on the global Christian community to pray for this grieving family and stand in solidarity with persecuted Christians in Pakistan,” he said. 

Sardar Mushtaq Gill, founder of LEAD Ministries Pakistan, emphasized that, regardless of any claim that the boy went willingly, his age legally classifies this case as abduction under Pakistani law. Gill further highlighted the ongoing systemic discrimination faced by Christian minorities, stating, “Social pressures often coerce young Christians into vulnerable situations, including forced or deceptive conversions.” 

LEAD Ministries Pakistan is a dedicated advocacy group that raises awareness about the marginalization and vulnerability of Christians in Pakistan. Due to weak legal protections and social discrimination, the Christian minority often suffers from inadequate defense against forced conversions and related injustices. LEAD Ministries continues to call for stronger safeguards and equal rights for religious minorities.