Are Baloch Civilians Still Under Threat from Pak-Backed Death Squads?
Click to start listening
Synopsis
In a shocking report, a prominent rights organization details the extrajudicial killings of Baloch youths by Pakistan-supported death squads, highlighting a grim and ongoing crisis in Balochistan. As violence escalates, the call for accountability grows louder, forcing the international community to confront these heinous human rights violations.
Key Takeaways
- Two Baloch youths were extrajudicially killed recently.
- Extrajudicial killings and enforced disappearances are on the rise in Balochistan.
- The Baloch Yakjehti Committee is actively documenting these human rights violations.
- International accountability for these crimes is urgently needed.
- The local population is living in fear due to rampant abductions and killings.
Quetta, Oct 23 (NationPress) A prominent human rights organization has reported that two Baloch youths were unlawfully executed by a death squad supported by Pakistan in Balochistan on Thursday. This recent act of violence is part of a persistent trend of persecution highlighted by a rise in extrajudicial killings, enforced disappearances, and torture within the region.
The Baloch Yakjehti Committee (BYC) revealed that a 20-year-old laborer named Zahoor Baloch, hailing from the Paroom area in Panjgur district, was forcibly taken by a state-backed death squad during the early hours of October 20.
According to eyewitness accounts, the abductors arrived in a Surf vehicle and seized Zahoor from his home. His mutilated body was discovered the following morning, confirming the extrajudicial nature of his death.
The BYC stated, “This tragic incident is not isolated but is part of a systematic campaign of enforced disappearances and extrajudicial executions targeting the Baloch population. Zahoor's death reflects the persistent climate of fear in Balochistan, where young men are regularly abducted and killed with impunity.”
In another alarming incident, the BYC reported that on October 20, the tortured and bullet-riddled body of another Baloch civilian, Faqeer Jan, was discovered in an open area, marking yet another case of extrajudicial killing in the province.
Faqeer was abducted on the night of October 18 by a state-backed death squad in the Gwaash region of Panjgur.
The BYC expressed deep concern, stating, “The continued silence of human rights organizations and the international community regarding these grave violations is deeply troubling. We urgently call for an independent investigation and accountability for those responsible for these unlawful killings and the ongoing atrocities in Balochistan.”
In its report titled 'Human Rights Situation in Balochistan', released last week, the BYC documented extensive abuses perpetrated by Pakistani authorities between July and August.
“Extrajudicial killings remain rampant, with 29 individuals killed during July and August. Most cases involved target killings, custodial deaths, and kill-and-dump incidents. The districts of Kech, Awaran, and Khuzdar recorded the highest number of cases,” the report stated.
It also noted that 59 percent of the violations were committed by Pakistan-backed death squads, with 21 percent attributed to armed forces. Tragically, minors were not spared, as two children lost their lives due to mortar shelling targeting civilian populations.
Point of View
It's imperative to recognize the grave human rights violations occurring in Balochistan. The persistent extrajudicial killings and enforced disappearances highlight a dire need for international intervention and accountability. The nation must stand united in advocating for the rights of the Baloch people, ensuring their voices are heard and their rights protected.
NationPress
23/10/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the current situation in Balochistan regarding human rights?
The human rights situation in Balochistan is alarming, characterized by a significant increase in extrajudicial killings, enforced disappearances, and torture, particularly targeting the Baloch population.
Who are the perpetrators of these human rights violations?
Many of the reported violations are attributed to state-backed death squads and armed forces operating in the region, often with impunity.
What actions are being called for in response to these violations?
Human rights organizations are calling for an independent investigation into these unlawful killings and accountability for those responsible, urging the international community to take action.
How many extrajudicial killings were reported recently?
Recently, the Baloch Yakjehti Committee reported that at least 29 extrajudicial killings occurred between July and August, with many cases involving targeted attacks.
What impact do these violations have on the local population?
The ongoing violence has created a climate of fear among the local population, leading to widespread anxiety and insecurity regarding personal safety.
