Christian Rider Shot Nine Times in Rawalpindi Raises Alarm Over Police ‘encounter’

Newsroom (02/06/2026 Gaudium Press ) A 22-year-old Christian motorcycle ride-hailing driver is fighting for his life after being allegedly shot nine times by members of an anti-crime police unit in Rawalpindi, intensifying concerns over the use of force and accountability in Pakistan’s Punjab province.

Alyan Johnson was critically wounded on the night of May 26 after reportedly becoming caught in a police pursuit involving Dolphin Force personnel. According to his family, Johnson had just dropped off a passenger when officers arrived chasing a suspected armed man who allegedly fired into the air before attempting to flee. In the chaos that followed, police opened fire — leaving the young laborer gravely injured.

Johnson, who had begun working with a ride-hailing service just six months earlier to support his family, remains hospitalized with multiple gunshot wounds and severe injuries, including fractures to his right leg.

A Family’s Plea for Justice

For Johnson’s family, the incident is not only a personal tragedy but a test of justice and dignity for marginalized communities. A formal complaint has been filed at Sadiqabad police station, demanding a transparent investigation, strict legal consequences for those involved, and compensation for the harm inflicted.

Joseph Michael, Johnson’s uncle, strongly rejected any implication that the victim posed a threat.

“Johnson raised his hands and identified himself as a rider in a loud voice, but the shooting continued. He had no weapon and no criminal record,” Michael said. “He only wanted to help his father, who works as a sanitary worker.”

Johnson’s story reflects a deeper moral concern — the sanctity of life and the responsibility of authorities to exercise restraint and compassion, especially in high-risk situations. His survival, despite nine bullet wounds, has been described by relatives as nothing short of providential.

“Anything could have happened. We are grateful he survived,” Michael added.

Official Response and Lingering Doubts

Following the incident, four Dolphin Force officers allegedly involved in the shooting were suspended and charged on the orders of the Rawalpindi city police officer. Authorities have pledged accountability, though they have yet to provide a detailed public account of what transpired.

Raja Abdul Hanif, chairman of the Punjab chief minister’s inspection team, visited Johnson in the hospital and assured the family that justice would be served.

“The law is equal for everyone and action will be taken… following a transparent investigation,” Hanif said, adding that the government would ensure the victim’s medical costs are covered.

Yet the family remains dissatisfied, questioning whether the response so far is sufficient. Their concerns echo a broader skepticism felt by many human rights advocates, who warn that accountability in such cases often remains elusive.

Christian Leaders and Advocates Speak Out

The shooting has drawn strong reactions from Christian leaders and civil society groups. A delegation led by Tariq Mehmood Ghouri of the Catholic bishops’ National Commission for Justice and Peace visited Johnson in hospital, offering both moral and legal support.

“The situation was mishandled,” Ghouri said, noting that doctors are still uncertain whether Johnson will regain full mobility.

He emphasized the socio-economic realities faced by many in Pakistan, particularly among minority communities.

“For many poor families, motorcycle ride-hailing is one of the few ways to earn a living amid soaring inflation and fuel prices. The state must recognize these realities and act with compassion.”

From a Christian ethical standpoint, Ghouri’s remarks highlight the call to uphold justice not only as a legal obligation but as a moral imperative grounded in the inherent dignity of every human being.

He also framed the case within the broader struggle for minority rights:

“The incident is an eye-opener for those who claim that religious minorities enjoy equal rights and protection in Pakistan.”

A Pattern of Concern

Johnson’s case is not isolated. It emerges against a backdrop of mounting scrutiny over police “encounter” practices in Punjab. A fact-finding report by the Human Rights Commission of Pakistan (HRCP) earlier this year outlined troubling patterns of alleged staged encounters and extrajudicial actions by law enforcement.

According to the report, at least 670 police encounters were recorded in the first eight months of 2025, resulting in 924 suspect deaths — compared with only two police fatalities. The commission described this imbalance as “statistically implausible,” pointing to possible systemic abuses and disregard for the sanctity of life.

The findings also documented troubling allegations of intimidation against victims’ families, including pressure to hasten burials and barriers to independent medical investigations.

Concerns about the Dolphin Force specifically are not new. Past incidents, including a 2022 case in Lahore where officers mistakenly killed a dismissed constable, have raised questions about training, judgment, and operational oversight.

A Call for Justice Rooted in Faith

For many in Pakistan’s Christian community, the shooting of Alyan Johnson represents more than a tragic error — it is a call to reaffirm principles of justice, accountability, and compassion.

Christian teaching emphasizes that every life is sacred and that authority must be exercised with humility and responsibility. As Johnson continues his struggle to recover, his story has become a symbol of both vulnerability and resilience — and a reminder that justice must not only be promised but seen to be done.

His family, supported by faith and community, continues to press for truth and accountability, hoping that this moment of suffering may lead to meaningful reform and a renewed commitment to protecting the dignity of all citizens.

• Raju Hasmukh with files from CNA