Is Another Victim of Extrajudicial Killing in Balochistan the 21-Year-Old Zeeshan Baloch?
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Synopsis
The tragic case of 21-year-old Zeeshan Baloch, a student from Panjgur, highlights the brutal reality of extrajudicial killings in Balochistan. His enforced disappearance and subsequent death reflect a disturbing trend of violence against Baloch families. This incident raises urgent calls for justice and accountability in the region.
Key Takeaways
- Zeeshan Baloch, a 21-year-old student, was killed extrajudicially.
- He was a victim of enforced disappearance by a state-backed death squad.
- The incident highlights the ongoing violence in Balochistan.
- Zeeshan's father has been missing since 2015.
- Human rights organizations are demanding accountability.
Quetta, June 30 (NationPress) Zeeshan Baloch, a 21-year-old student hailing from Khudabadan, Panjgur in Balochistan, was tragically killed extra-judicially on Monday following his enforced disappearance by a state-supported execution squad, according to a human rights organization.
“This morning, around 9:00 a.m., the family was met with heartbreaking news: Zeeshan's body, riddled with bullets, was found near the Surdu Ghareeb Nawaz Hotel. His remains showed signs of multiple gunshot wounds,” stated the Baloch Yakjehti Committee (BYC).
The BYC emphasized that the targeted killing of Zeeshan, who had already suffered the pain of growing up without his father due to enforced disappearance, highlights the ongoing cycle of violence and oppression faced by Baloch families at the hands of Pakistani authorities.
Earlier that day, numerous human rights organizations urged for Zeeshan's immediate release following his abduction on the evening of Sunday from Football Chowk, Panjgur.
They asserted that Zeeshan fell victim to enforced disappearance by a state-backed death squad.
In the hours subsequent to Zeeshan's abduction, his family organized a sit-in protest along the China-Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC) road in Panjgur, demanding his swift release and sounding alarms over his safety.
Zeeshan is the son of Zaheer Ahmed, who himself has been forcibly disappeared since April 13, 2015, and remains unaccounted for.
“The family had been receiving threats for their peaceful efforts to locate their father. Now, the very son who advocated for his father's freedom has become the next target,” the BYC lamented.
Another human rights organization, Paank, also voiced its support for Zeeshan, noting his active involvement in the campaign for his father's safe return and his notable participation in the long march to Islamabad, which aimed to raise awareness about the issue of enforced disappearances in Balochistan.
Paank placed the blame for the unlawful abduction on the Pakistan Army and its affiliated death squads, reiterating calls for international human rights organizations to take immediate action against the ongoing atrocities in Balochistan.
Point of View
It is crucial to recognize the ongoing struggle faced by the Baloch community. The tragic fate of Zeeshan Baloch underscores the urgent need for accountability and justice in cases of enforced disappearances. The nation must address these human rights violations and ensure that such acts do not go unanswered.
NationPress
30/06/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
What happened to Zeeshan Baloch?
Zeeshan Baloch, a 21-year-old student, was killed extrajudicially after being abducted by a state-backed death squad.
Why is Zeeshan's case significant?
His case symbolizes the broader issue of enforced disappearances and violence against Baloch families, reflecting a disturbing trend in Balochistan.
What actions have been taken by human rights organizations?
Various human rights organizations have condemned his killing and called for accountability, urging international bodies to address the ongoing atrocities.
Who is responsible for Zeeshan's abduction?
Zeeshan's abduction is attributed to state-backed death squads, which are implicated in enforced disappearances in the region.
What is the connection between Zeeshan and his father?
Zeeshan's father, Zaheer Ahmed, has been missing since 2015 due to enforced disappearance, making this tragedy even more poignant.
