Pakistan arrests 43 over 'blasphemy' killings

Pakistani police have arrested at least forty three suspects in connection with the killing of a Christian couple accused of desecrating the Koran.

Reports say the couple was beaten to death by hundreds of locals who then burned their bodies at the brick making site where they worked in Punjab province.

Prime Minister Nawaz Sharif called the murders an unacceptable crime.

Allegations of blasphemy are often used in Pakistan to settle personal scores or target members of minorities.

Police say the suspects are due to appear in court in Lahore.

The victims have been identified as Shehzad Masih and his wife Shama.

BBC