Council of Sri Lankan Muslim Organisations UK (COSMOS – UK) Strongly condemn the horrific vigilante killing of a fellow Sri Lankan namely Mr Priyantha Diyawadana in Pakistan in cruellest manner. This is a very shocking news however we welcome the swift actions taken by the Prime Minister of Pakistan Hon Imran Khan against the perpetrators of this appalling crime.
These type of extremist action goes against the teaching of the Qur’an, where it is noted ‘Whosoever has spared the life of a soul, it is as though he has spared the life of all people. Whosoever has killed a soul, it is as though he has murdered all of mankind.’ Qur’an 5:32.
We believe in and strive for peaceful coexistence amongst all communities. The scale of the vicious killing on Friday 3rd of December has no doubt shocked many communities in the world. We urge the Government of Pakistan to bring those responsible of this heinous crime to face justice and to take actions to protect other fellow Sri Lankans and others in the soil of Pakistan to never repeat this type of killings. We also recognise the impact this may have on Muslims living in Sri Lanka and encourage the Government of Sri Lanka to promote calm, peace and protect all communities for peaceful coexistence.
We are one with the grieving family of late Mr Priyantha and we can fully understand their loss not only of their sole breadwinner, but also of a loving husband and father of 2 young children. Our heartfelt condolences and sympathies to the victim’s family.
Reported by:
Sifan Naeem
General Secretary – COSMOS UK
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