A Christian pastor who previously survived a targeted extremist attack in Islamabad was tragically shot dead on 5 December in Gujranwala, where he had relocated in search of safety for his family. The killing has reignited fear among Pakistan’s Christian community as calls grow for justice and protection.
Pastor Kamran Salamat, 45, was attacked outside his residence in Islam Colony, Sialkot Road, around 9:00 a.m. while preparing to drive his daughter to college. An unidentified motorcyclist approached him and opened fire at close range, striking him in the wrist, ear, and abdomen. Despite being rushed to Civil Hospital Gujranwala, he succumbed to his injuries around noon.
His daughter, Numeer, displayed remarkable courage by hitting the gunman with her father’s crutch, forcing the attacker to flee. Police later collected CCTV evidence, and an FIR has been registered under Section 324 of the Pakistan Penal Code. The attacker, described as having a long beard, has been identified by witnesses.
Pastor Kamran was a well-known leader, serving at the Church of Pentecostal in Islamabad and acting as Chairman of the Pastor’s Alliance, overseeing a network of around 200 pastors. He was also active in supporting Christians facing discrimination and harassment in the capital.
Just two months earlier, he had survived an extremist attack in Islamabad, where he was shot in the leg. Following that incident, family members urged him to relocate to Gujranwala for safety. Although he moved, he continued to minister weekly in Islamabad, telling colleagues that he “did not care for his life while serving God.”
The British Asian Christian Association (BACA) visited the grieving family, covering funeral expenses and offering immediate support. A large crowd attended Pastor Kamran’s funeral on 6 December at Saint Paul Presbyterian Church.
He leaves behind his wife, Salmina, and three children — Numeer (16), Ariel (14), and Arina (11). With their primary breadwinner gone, the family faces severe financial hardship. BACA has appealed for £1,000 to support the family’s living needs and £2,000 to secure legal assistance for a proper investigation.
BACA Trustee Juliet Chowdhry said the murder reflects a disturbing pattern of attacks on Christians in Pakistan, noting past high-profile assassinations and cases of extrajudicial killings.
As the investigation continues, Christian groups worldwide are calling for justice, transparency, and urgent protection for vulnerable believers in Pakistan.