In Kech district’s Dank area, women protesting for the return of bodies of those killed in a clash with security forces are reportedly facing threats of severe consequences from the local administration.
According to sources, the Deputy Commissioner of Kech has sent a message to the sit-in site at D Baloch, warning that if the protest is not ended and the road is not cleared by night, the demonstrators will face baton charges and legal action under Section 3 of the Maintenance of Public Order (MPO).
Reports indicate that after sunset, the Levies Force was instructed to forcefully disperse the protesters and send them home. Eyewitnesses say that around the time of night prayers, a large contingent of police, Levies personnel, and female officers surrounded the protest site, and a crackdown is expected at any moment.
Protesters allege that targeting women reflects the administration’s malicious intent and constitutes a clear violation of their right to peaceful protest.
Sources claim the Deputy Commissioner has stated openly that he is under pressure from the Chief Minister and other top officials to end the sit-in by any means necessary.
Meanwhile, Captain Zohaib Mohsin has been appointed as the new SP of Kech district. Political and social circles link his appointment to potential aggressive actions and arrests of protesters. Captain Zohaib is considered close to the military and is known for swift implementation of orders.
The protesters are demanding their right to peaceful protest and the immediate handover of the bodies to the families of the deceased.
