ISLAMABAD, April 8: All-Pakistan Minorities Alliance (APMA) Chairman Shahbaz Bhatti has condemned the killing of a pastor and his driver in Peshawar on Thursday.

The APMA chief, in a statement, said it was a heinous crime and brutal act of terrorism which should not be ignored.

The 37-year-old pastor, Shamoun Babar, and his driver, Mr Daniel, had been kidnapped a few days ago and later their mutilated bullet-riddled bodies were found. It is shocking and alarming, Mr Bhatti said.

He said such growing incidents of terrorism against religious minorities of Pakistan had created a sense of insecurity and fear. These acts of violence have terrorized the minorities who always struggle for the development, prosperity and integrity of the country, he added.

The APMA chairman asked the government to take practical steps to stop violence against minorities and protect their life and property. He also called for the arrest of culprits and award of exemplary punishments to them.