The family of Zareef Baloch, who was allegedly killed under torture by Pakistani forces, has vowed to continue protesting in Turbat until legal action is taken against those responsible.
Speaking at a press conference at the site of their sit-in, the family accused security forces of brutality and called for justice.
“The Baloch nation stands at a crossroads in history,” the family said. “We are burying our loved ones but have abandoned the tradition of mourning. Our customary rites of condolence have been stripped away, leaving us only with questions.”
Addressing journalists, they added. “You are the custodians of the pen. Write this: The Baloch no longer grieve silently over their dead; they question, they demand justice.”
According to the family, Frontier Corps (FC) personnel raided their home in Tump on Friday night, forcibly disappearing Zareef Baloch. His mutilated body was discovered the following day, dumped in a remote area.
“When we attempted to transport his body to Turbat for a post-mortem, the FC imposed a curfew in Tump, sealing all routes,” the family alleged. They claimed they were harassed, stopped for hours, and ultimately forced to bury Zareef without any semblance of justice.
Describing Zareef’s condition, they said. “His body was burned, his tongue was cut out, and there were clear signs of torture. We cannot imagine the suffering he endured. These wounds will haunt us for a lifetime and teach us to detest the cruelty of this army—an army of uniformed savages masquerading as humans.”
The family announced plans to expand their protest. “Tomorrow, Monday, we are calling for a wheel-jam and shutter-down strike in Turbat. We urge our people to play their role in making this protest a success. We can no longer tolerate the presence of these brute forces in our cities and villages.”
They emphasized that their demands fall within the framework of Pakistan’s constitution and law. “We are seeking our legal rights, but the FC continues to act with impunity, considering themselves above the law,” the family said.