Secretary-General condemns deadly attack on Shia Muslims in north-western Pakistan

United Nations Secretary-General Ban Ki-moon strongly condemns a deadly attack in north-western Pakistan today, which reportedly left more than 20 people dead, according to his spokesperson.

According to media reports, armed men ambushed three buses near the city of Gilgit on Thursday, forced passengers off the vehicles and then shot 22 Shia Muslims. Some reports note that Pakistani Taliban militants have claimed responsibility for the attack.

“The Secretary-General expresses his outrage over such deliberate attacks on people due to their religious beliefs in Pakistan,” Mr. Ban’s spokesperson said. “He extends his heartfelt condolences to the families of the victims and to the Government and people of Pakistan.”