Why are citizens in Balochistan protesting against the surge in kidnappings?
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Synopsis
In a powerful display of public dissent, hundreds gathered in Panjgur, Balochistan to protest alarming rates of kidnappings for ransom. The rally, led by local political figures, highlights the urgent need for government action against the deteriorating law and order situation. Discover the voices driving this movement and the implications for the region.
Key Takeaways
- Protest in Panjgur highlights community outrage over kidnappings.
- APCAM organized the rally to demand government accountability.
- Call for immediate action for the safe recovery of victims.
- Concerns raised about enforced disappearances in Balochistan.
- Public dissatisfaction with law enforcement's effectiveness.
Islamabad, Jan 19 (NationPress) A significant protest rally took place in Panjgur town, located in Balochistan, Pakistan, as hundreds of citizens, political activists, and merchants gathered to voice their concerns over the escalating incidents of kidnapping for ransom targeting traders and ordinary individuals, alongside a worsening law and order situation in the region, local media reported on Sunday.
The protest was organized by the All Parties Citizen Action Committee of Makran (APCAM) in response to the abduction of prominent local figure Gul Jan Rind and numerous other residents in the Panjgur district, as highlighted by Pakistan's leading daily, Dawn. Protesters amassed at Main Bismillah Chowk in Panjgur, displaying placards and banners that articulated their demands and anti-government slogans.
Among the rally's leaders were APCACM Chairman Nawab Shambay Zai, BNP leader Mir Nazir Ahmed Baloch, National Party acting president Mujeeb Rehman, JUI Panjgur leader Hafiz Muhammad Azam Baloch, Haq Do Tehreek Panjgur leader Mullah Farhad, Jamaat-i-Islami leader Maulvi Noor, PML-N leader Ashraf Sagat, and PPP Panjgur leader Javed Baloch.
The protest leaders called upon the government and law enforcement agencies to take swift action to ensure the safe return of Shah Nawaz Gul and other kidnapped individuals. They raised concerns regarding the inability of law enforcement agencies to trace the victim's mobile number despite the availability of modern technology, demanding the immediate apprehension of those responsible for the kidnappings.
On December 18, a prominent human rights organization expressed alarm over the enforced disappearance of two Baloch civilians. The Baloch Voice for Justice (BVJ) reported that Munib Baloch was abducted from his electric shop in the main bazaar of Kharan city, while Mughfar Abid was also taken from the same location.
The rights organization emphasized that the incident reflects a troubling trend of enforced disappearances in Balochistan and called for the immediate disclosure of the two civilians' whereabouts.
According to Baloch Voice for Justice, "Two Baloch civilians were forcibly taken from Kharan on January 17, 2025. Munib Baloch, son of Rehmat Ali, a student and shop worker, was abducted from his electric shop. Witnesses indicate potential involvement of security forces, and his family has received no updates since his disappearance."
"At the same time and location, Mughfar Abid, son of Abid Baloch, a daily wage laborer, was also taken away. This situation highlights a disturbing pattern of enforced disappearances in Balochistan. Baloch Voice for Justice demands immediate disclosure of their status and holds the state accountable for their safety and lives," it added.
Point of View
It is crucial to recognize that this protest in Balochistan reflects deep-rooted issues of safety and governance. The alarming trend of kidnappings not only threatens local citizens but also challenges the credibility of law enforcement. The demand for accountability and immediate action is a reflection of the public's desperation for safety and justice.
NationPress
20/01/2026
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the reason behind the protest in Balochistan?
The protest in Balochistan is primarily against the rising incidents of kidnapping for ransom affecting both traders and common citizens, alongside a deteriorating law and order situation.
Who organized the protest?
The protest was organized by the All Parties Citizen Action Committee of Makran (APCAM).
What demands were made by the protesters?
Protesters demanded immediate action from the government and law enforcement agencies for the safe recovery of kidnapped individuals, along with accountability for those responsible.
What has been reported about enforced disappearances in Balochistan?
Recent reports indicate a pattern of enforced disappearances, with two Baloch civilians abducted in Kharan, raising concerns about the role of security forces.
How has the government responded to these incidents?
The government's response has been criticized for its inadequacy, particularly regarding the inability to trace victims despite the availability of modern technology.
