Protesters demand justice against enforced disappearances and extrajudicial killings.
The Baloch Yakjehti Committee (BYC) organized a massive demonstration in Quetta, where people in large numbers protested against the brutal killing of Zareef Baloch and the ongoing repression faced by the Baloch people. Protesters demanded accountability for the increasing human rights violations and justice for the victims of state violence.
In Kech, the situation remains dire as a shutter-down strike continues in solidarity with Zareef Baloch’s grieving family. The Frontier Corps (FC) has imposed a curfew, harassing protesters at various locations. Reports reveal that FC personnel have been snatching mobile phones from protesters to intimidate and silence them.
At Hub Chowki, the state crackdown has intensified. Police and security forces used tear gas and live ammunition against peaceful demonstrators, detaining several participants. The situation has raised serious concerns for the safety of the protesters, including women, children, and elderly individuals.
The demands of the protesting families at Turbat, Fida Chowk Sit-In.
1: Filing of an FIR against the FC officials involved in Zareef abduction and murder.
2: An independent inquiry into Zareef’s abduction and killing.
3: Justice for Naveed Baloch, a resident of Buleda, who was killed by state forces and accountability for those responsible for his killing.
4: An end to the ongoing harassment, abductions, and violence against Baloch people.
Meanwhile, the family of Zubair Baloch, a student and journalist who was abducted from Hub, has confirmed his safe release. As a result, the BYC and Zubair’s family have concluded their protest. However, the protest for Zareef Baloch and Naveed Baloch remains steadfast.
BYC has announced that if these demands are not met promptly, the protests will expand further across Balochistan.
The committee calls on all human rights organizations, civil society, and conscious citizens to stand with the victims and demand justice.