In August, Cecil returned home to his family and, yet again, he was attacked and brutally tortured by the same group of radicals. His father told ICC, “The religiously motivated group thrashed him badly. His foot was hit with some sharp weapon causing the skin on his foot to peel off, exposing the bones.”

He continued, “Cecil is still under medical treatment and his life is being threatened.” Yousef also told ICC that the family is being threatened not to pursue legal action against the attackers. If they do, Yousef fears that his family could be attacked again.

While speaking with ICC, Kashif Anthony, Coordinator for the Catholic Commission for Justice and Peace, condemned this “inhumane” action. Anthony also called upon law enforcement agencies to protect Cecil and his family and ensure religious freedoms for minority groups.

“This is [an] alarming situation for the religious minorities,” Anthony told ICC. “The government must take sincere measures to curb religious extremism and promote religious harmony. Every citizen should enjoy religious freedom and protection as per constitutional guarantees.”

As Cecil and his family remain in hiding, ICC is working with the family to help cover all of Cecil’s medical costs. ICC is also seeking a way to ensure that Cecil and his family are protected in the days to come so that they can live a life free from fear of attack.

*Name changed for security

For interviews with William Stark, Regional Manager, please contact Olivia Miller, Communications Coordinator: press@persecution.org