Rome, Italy, Aug 13, 2007 / 10:30 am (CNA).- On July 30 Islamic extremists killed Sadiq Masih, a Pakistani Christian who requested a leave of absence from his job because he was mistreated for his faith.  After obtaining it, Masih’s Muslim boss and his relatives broke into Masih’s house and killed him, leaving one of his sons seriously wounded as well.

The killing took place in the town of Rani Ke Minar in the province of Punjab.  Police have taken two of the men responsible into custody, according to Aneeka Maria, a lawyer for the Masih family.

“The pressure on the murdered father had been going on for some time.  His bosses, all from the Chaudhris family, had falsely accused two of Masih’s sons of a murder they did not commit.  The two children are still being held.

On July 30, the Chaudhris went to Masih’s home and killed Sadiq, leaving his oldest son seriously wounded.  He remains in critical condition at a local hospital.  Aneeka Maria said although he is under the watch of doctors, Masih’s son is still in danger as the Chaudhirs said they are seeking to kill him as he could possibly testify against them in a trial of the murder of his father. They have also threatened to kill anyone who is involved in organizing Masih’s funeral.

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