The family of Zahid Baloch, a young man from Karachi’s Lyari area, held a press conference on Tuesday at the Karachi Press Club, demanding his immediate recovery after he was allegedly subjected to enforced disappearance on 17 July 2025.
According to the family, Zahid was abducted between 5:00 and 5:30 PM while waiting for passengers near his rickshaw, as part of his daily routine. They claim he was forcibly taken by unidentified men in plainclothes who shoved him into a vehicle. Since then, there has been no trace of his whereabouts.
Speaking to the media, Zahid’s father, Abdul Hameed Baloch, insisted that his son had no involvement in any illegal activities. He described Zahid as a peaceful and law-abiding citizen who had recently completed his graduation in International Relations from the University of Karachi.
Abdul Hameed added that Zahid was a bright and hardworking young man who supported his family financially by driving a rickshaw due to ongoing economic difficulties. He expressed deep anguish over the fact that when the family approached the local police station to file a First Information Report (FIR), the police allegedly refused to register the case — compounding the family’s distress.
He further stated that Zahid’s educational achievements and commitment to lawful living were clear evidence of his character and his role as a responsible member of society.
During the press conference, the family appealed to the government, judiciary, and human rights organisations to take urgent action for Zahid’s safe and immediate return. They called for transparency, an impartial investigation into the incident, and for authorities to inform the family of his well-being.
The incident adds to growing concerns over alleged enforced disappearances in various parts of the country, where citizens are reportedly detained without legal process or disclosure of their whereabouts.