Macedonia killings a diabolical plot: Pak

Pakistan has condemned the killing of seven Pakistani immigrants by Macedonian police two years ago in a staged anti-terrorism action, saying the act was a ‘‘heinous’’ crime and a ‘‘diabolical plot’’ aimed at impressing the US.

‘‘This crime is more shocking because these murders were pre-meditated and were committed to spruce up Macedonia’s image in the war against terrorism. It was a diabolical plot,’’ Pakistan Foreign Ministry Spokesman Masood Khan said. ‘‘We commend Macedonia for making this revelation and initiating legal and judicial process,’’ Khan said. Macedonia has acknowledged that the seven executed in March 2002 for allegedly ambushing a police patrol and plotting attacks on foreign embassies in Skopje, were innocent illegal immigrants and the killings were planned to promote the country as a player in the war against terrorism. Khan said Pakistani Ambassador in Turkey, Sher Afgan is in touch with authorities in Skopje.

‘‘We will make all efforts to seek justice for these victims,’’ he added. Media reports quoted Information Minister Sheikh Rashid as saying that Pakistan would demand compensation for the ‘‘heinous crime’’ and see that justice is done in the case.