Are Seven Baloch Civilians the Latest Victims of Enforced Disappearance by Pakistani Forces?
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Synopsis
In a distressing turn of events, seven Baloch civilians have been forcibly disappeared by Pakistani forces, intensifying the ongoing cycle of human rights abuses in Balochistan. This situation highlights urgent international concerns regarding state-sponsored oppression and the violation of fundamental rights.
Key Takeaways
- Seven Baloch civilians have been forcibly disappeared in Balochistan.
- Pakistani security forces conducted a raid leading to these abductions.
- The situation reflects a broader pattern of human rights violations.
- International attention and accountability are urgently needed.
- Victims face severe socioeconomic challenges due to displacement.
Quetta, Aug 1 (NationPress) Seven Baloch civilians have been subjected to forcible disappearance by the Pakistani security forces, highlighting the ongoing cycle of persecution within Balochistan province, according to a prominent Baloch human rights organization on Friday.
Paank, the Human Rights Department of the Baloch National Movement, reported that on Thursday evening, Pakistani security forces executed a raid in the Baghao region of Barkhan district, resulting in the abduction of four individuals. Among those taken is Mian Khan Khetran, the elected Vice Chairman of the Baghao Union Council. The other victims include Mian Khan Khetran's son Salal Ahmed, Sattar Baloch, and Gulmir Baloch.
The organization further disclosed that three additional Baloch civilians were forcibly disappeared in various districts throughout the province. It was reported that Amanullah Baloch, a driver and resident of Dalbandhin in Chagai district, was abducted on July 25 from a friend's home in Jamalabad within Nushki district. Furthermore, Shah Jahan, a resident of Majurabad in Panjgur district, faced enforced disappearance on July 29 after being unlawfully detained by intelligence officials.
Additionally, Beebarg Baloch, a government employee from Naal in Khuzdar, was kidnapped on July 30 from Asad Noor Market by groups backed by Pakistan.
Paank vehemently condemned these acts of enforced disappearance, asserting that targeting elected officials and innocent civilians in such an unlawful and brutal manner constitutes a serious violation of international human rights laws and democratic principles.
Earlier on Thursday, the rights organization condemned the "egregious human rights violations" perpetrated by the Pakistani security forces against the residents of Noora Mohammad Hassani village in Awaran District of Balochistan.
According to Paank, these violations, which include forced displacement, arbitrary detentions, and the systematic denial of fundamental rights, embody a pattern of state-sponsored oppression that necessitates immediate international scrutiny and accountability.
“Paank has received verified reports that on July 24 and 25, Pakistani security forces forcibly displaced the entire population of Noora Mohammad Hassani village, coercing residents to leave their ancestral homes. This mass eviction follows a troubling precedent set in 2020, when security forces allegedly detained both male and female residents, subjected men to severe physical violence at the Bugari Zeelag military camp, and later released them,” stated the human rights organization.
“These individuals and their families have been uprooted, heightening their vulnerability amidst soaring inflation and severe food insecurity. The evictions have left them homeless and without sustainable means of livelihood, worsening their socioeconomic hardships,” the statement continued.
Expressing concern, the rights organization indicated that the situation in Noora Mohammad Hassani reflects a broader trend of human rights abuses in Balochistan, characterized by enforced disappearances, extrajudicial detentions, and excessive use of force by Pakistani security personnel.
Point of View
It is crucial to acknowledge that these incidents reflect a broader issue of human rights violations in the region. As we stand with the affected communities, there is a pressing need for the government to address these abuses and ensure justice for the victims while upholding the rights of all citizens.
NationPress
20/08/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
What are enforced disappearances?
Enforced disappearances refer to the abduction of individuals by state or state-sponsored forces, where the victims' whereabouts are concealed, and they are often held without trial or due process.
Why are civilians targeted in Balochistan?
Civilians in Balochistan are often targeted due to ongoing political and ethnic tensions, as well as the suppression of dissent and human rights activism in the region.
What can the international community do?
The international community can apply diplomatic pressure, call for independent investigations, and advocate for the protection of human rights in regions facing systemic abuses.
