Pakistan deploys troops to Lahore amid protests over church attacks

Paramilitary forces have been stationed in the eastern Pakistani city of Lahore amid street protests triggered by the recent bombings near two churches in the city by pro-Taliban militants, a police officer says.

The soldiers patrolled the streets on Tuesday to tighten security as people were holding funerals for the victims of the bombing, said Lahore police chief Amin Wains.

Those attending the burial services went through though security checks, he added.

At least 17 people were killed and scores more injured in twin bombings in the Christian neighborhood of Youhanabad on Sunday. Medics say they predict the death toll to rise.

On Monday, Interior Minister Chaudhry Nisar Ali Khan condemned the bombings as an “inhuman act of terrorism,” stressing that “the noose has been tightening around militants” in a major operation against militants.

“They are now hitting the softest targets like churches, mosques and schools. It shows their frustration,” said the minister.

In a statement carried by state media, Pakistani Prime Minister Nawaz Sharif “condemned the Lahore blasts and directed provincial governments to ensure the security of public and their properties.”

Also in Lahore on Monday, police forces used tear gas and water cannon to disperse thousands of angry Christian protesters slamming the police over the bombings.

The protesters vandalized public property and vehicles, and pelted security forces with stones.

Bombing suspect arrested

A police spokeswoman was cited in press reports as saying that a female suspect had been arrested in connection with the deadly attacks.

Pro-Taliban militants, who claimed responsibility for the weekend bombings, have been battling government forces for over a decade. Thousands of Pakistanis have lost their lives in the fighting.