The alarming trend of enforced disappearances continues unabated in Balochistan, with reports of seven additional abductions surfacing from various regions. According to Paank, the human rights wing of the Baloch National Movement, the latest cases highlight severe violations of human rights in the region.
Enforced Disappearances in Kech District
In Kech district’s Dasht Khadan area, two individuals were reportedly forcibly disappeared in separate incidents earlier this month. On 10 November, Amir Baloch, son of Mohammad Ibrahim, was reportedly abducted, followed by the disappearance of labourer Hakeem Baloch on 11 November.
Additionally, three more individuals were abducted in Kech during the same period. Salman Baloch, son of Liaquat, was taken on 11 November, Ali Agha, son of Mahmood, was abducted on 19 November, and Habib Baloch, son of Mujeeb, has also been reported missing.
Raids in Zamuran, Kech
Pakistani security forces reportedly conducted raids in Zamuran, abducting Uzair Umeed and Abdul Rehman Qadeer from Umeed’s residence. Locals report that the abductees’ families were assured of their return, but no progress has been made. Notably, Uzair Umeed’s two sons, Nazir and Anif, were also abducted two months ago and released after enduring severe torture.
Families have appealed to human rights organisations and the authorities to ensure the safe recovery of their loved ones and to cease these recurring violations.
Dasht Khadan Under Military Siege
The Baloch Yakjehti Committee reports that Dasht Khadan has been under military siege for over a week. Local residents describe a harrowing situation, with security forces conducting door-to-door raids, setting properties ablaze, and targeting educated youth. Multiple abductions have been reported, including that of FSC student Talal Umar on 10 November and matriculation student Habib Baloch on 19 November.
The Committee condemned the state-led actions as crimes against humanity and called for international attention. “This military operation poses an existential threat to the Baloch people,” stated a spokesperson, urging global human rights organisations to intervene and hold Pakistan accountable.
A Disturbing Trend of Abductions and Killings
The escalating number of enforced disappearances has raised significant concerns. Over 35 cases have been reported this month alone, with Paank documenting more than 110 incidents of enforced disappearances and six extrajudicial killings in the past month across Balochistan, Karachi, and other parts of Pakistan.
Protest in Awaran for the Recovery of Diljan Baloch
Meanwhile, a sit-in protest in front of the Deputy Commissioner’s office in Awaran entered its fourth day, demanding the recovery of missing person Diljan Baloch. Protestors have blocked major roads, including Awaran to Bela, causing significant disruption.
While a delegation, including local political leaders and human rights activists, has initiated dialogue with the protestors, the families remain steadfast in their demands, vowing to continue the protest until Diljan’s safe return.