Andrew Bennett, Canada’s Ambassador for Religious Freedom, today issued the following statement:

“I was sincerely shocked and appalled to learn of the death of Khalil Ahmad, who was shot while in police custody in the Sheikhupura district in Pakistan on May 16, at the age of 65. He was being held on charges of alleged blasphemy.

“In Pakistan, hundreds of Ahmadis have been murdered for their faith and beliefs, and thousands arrested for declaring Islam to be their faith.

“This is only the latest event in a long series of violent attacks on individuals who are accused, often falsely, under Pakistan’s draconian blasphemy laws.

“Canada strongly denounces such violence and we call for Pakistani authorities to ensure the personal safety of other Ahmadis associated with Mr. Ahmad who were also charged with alleged blasphemy.

“On behalf of the Government of Canada and Canadians, I extend my prayers and sincere condolences to the family and friends of the late Khalil Ahmad.”

src:news.gc.ca