Protests erupt across Balochistan as families demand action against enforced disappearances

Amid ongoing enforced disappearances and extrajudicial killings by Pakistan armed forces in Balochistan, protests have recently emerged in major cities including Panjgur, Kharan and Pasni, as families demand the recovery of their loved ones.

The protest in Panjgur demanding the return of two brothers entered the second day on Tuesday. According to Balochistan Post, the brothers, Sabir Noor and Abid Noor, were allegedly abducted during a raid by Pakistan Armed Forces in Tar Office area on Monday morning.

his/her whereabouts are unknown. A large number of residents, including women and children, gathered to join the protest by blocking the China-Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC) road. The demonstration caused significant traffic delays, with cars parked on both sides of the road.

The families had earlier given authorities time till 2 pm on Monday to secure the release of the brothers. When no action was taken by the deadline, the protest escalated, with participants vowing to continue until both brothers were recovered.

The protest has been going on in Kharan for five days. On Tuesday, protesters gathered in the Red Zone area demanding the release of four missing persons. The protesters, including women and children, marched through the city carrying placards and chanting slogans against enforced disappearances.

The missing persons include Amanullah Muhammad Hasani, a local businessman, as well as three others – Aminullah, Irshad Ahmed and Dahwood – who were reportedly taken from Kharan Bazaar. Families remain at the protest site and are urging authorities to take immediate action.

In the coastal town of Pasni, residents staged a protest on Tuesday, blocking the main highway near the zero point. The protests began after the alleged abduction of Dur Muhammad Shafqat and Abdul Salam Baqi by security forces on April 13 and both men are still missing, The Balochistan Post reported.

Road blockage caused traffic delays, preventing vehicles from passing through the affected area. The protesters, including family members, are demanding the immediate return of the missing and have urged human rights organizations to pay attention and raise awareness.

The protests taking place in Balochistan reflect growing frustration over enforced disappearances. Families and activists allege that security forces are unlawfully detaining people and transferring them to undisclosed locations. Protesters in all three cities have vowed to continue their protests until the missing persons are found.