In Balochistan, widespread protests erupted demanding justice for the killing of Zareef Umar and the alleged extrajudicial killing of Naveed Hamid, alongside calls to end enforced disappearances and violence in the region. The demonstrations, organized by the Baloch Yakjehti Committee (BYC), were joined by families of victims and a large number of supporters.
A major rally began from Fida Chowk in Turbat, where protesters gathered at a camp set up by the victims’ families and BYC members. The rally, which included women and children, moved through the main bazaar and other significant roads before culminating outside the Deputy Commissioner’s office. Holding placards and chanting slogans, the protesters demanded justice for Zareef Umar and Naveed Hameed, along with accountability for ongoing rights violations across Balochistan.
Once outside the Deputy Commissioner’s office, protesters staged a sit-in and engaged in negotiations with local authorities. The first round of talks was led by ADC Maqbool Anwar, followed by another session headed by ADC Khalil Murad. During the discussions, the victims’ families and protest leaders presented their demands, which included the immediate registration of an FIR against Zareef Umar’s killers and their prosecution under the law.
The protesters vowed to continue their sit-in at Fida Chowk until their demands were met. They also condemned the growing prevalence of enforced disappearances and extrajudicial killings, demanding an immediate halt to these practices.
Meanwhile, solidarity protests were held in Quetta, where BYC leaders including Mahrang Baloch and Sibghatullah Baloch addressed a large gathering. They denounced Zareef Umar’s killing as a reflection of the increasing impunity enjoyed by state forces and urged the public to unite against such injustices. The speakers stressed that silence in the face of such atrocities would only perpetuate the cycle of violence.
The speakers said that the situation in the Kech district remains tense, with businesses shuttered as a mark of protest against the extrajudicial killing of Zareef Umar. They said that the security forces have imposed restrictions in certain areas and harassed demonstrators, including confiscating mobile phones and resorting to intimidation tactics.
In Hub Chowki, police and paramilitary forces escalated tensions by using tear gas and live ammunition against peaceful protesters, leading to injuries and arrests. Eyewitnesses confirmed that even women, children, and the elderly were not spared.
Protesters demanded justice for Naveed Hameed, a resident of Buleda allegedly killed by state forces, and an independent investigation into Zareef Umar’s abduction and custodial murder. They also called for accountability for all security personnel implicated in these cases.
The BYC has warned of escalating protests across Balochistan if the demands are not met. Activists have urged human rights organizations, civil society, and citizens to stand in solidarity with the victims and raise their voices against ongoing state violence in the region.