Pakistani Forces Threaten Protesting Family of Abducted Baloch Citizen: A Deepening Crisis in Balochistan

The struggles of the Baloch people in Pakistan have once again been thrust into the spotlight with the abduction of Zaheer Ahmed Baloch. Videos circulating on social media have depicted a distressing scene: Zaheer's family, peacefully protesting in Quetta, being threatened by uniformed members of the Pakistani defence forces. This incident underscores the ongoing plight of the Baloch community, where enforced disappearances have become an alarming norm.

Zaheer Ahmed Baloch was reportedly taken by Pakistani forces on June 27, 2024. His family, driven by desperation and a profound sense of injustice, has been organizing protests across Quetta, demanding his immediate and safe return. The situation escalated when armed agents, allegedly from a Pakistani intelligence agency, began threatening the family during their peaceful rally outside the Session Court. PAANK, the human rights wing of the Baloch National Movement, highlighted this on 'X' (formerly Twitter), calling for protection for Zaheer's family and his release.

The family's plight has drawn attention from various human rights organizations and activists. Prominent Baloch rights activist Sammi Deen Baloch shared that unidentified gunmen have been harassing Zaheer’s family, attempting to coerce them into halting their protests. Despite the local administration’s responsibility to address and resolve these issues, no substantial action has been taken to safeguard the family or ensure Zaheer’s return.

Enforced disappearances have been a persistent issue in Balochistan. The region has long grappled with the abduction of its citizens, often by state forces, leading to prolonged protests and demands for justice. Recently, the Voice for Baloch Missing Persons (VBMP) marked the 5,496th day of its sit-in protest outside the Quetta Press Club. This protest camp symbolizes the enduring resistance and resilience of the Baloch people against enforced disappearances. Top Baloch activists, including Sibghatullah from the Baloch Yakjehti Committee's Makran chapter, have visited the camp to show solidarity with the affected families.

The scale of this issue is staggering. In May alone, PAANK reported 90 cases of enforced disappearances in Balochistan, with the regions of Kech, Gwadar, and Dera Bugti witnessing 22, 15, and 29 incidents, respectively. These figures reflect a severe and ongoing human rights crisis that demands urgent attention and action from both national and international communities.

Zaheer Ahmed Baloch’s abduction and the subsequent harassment of his family are stark reminders of the broader systemic issues faced by the Baloch people. The threats against Zaheer’s family during their peaceful protests highlight the oppressive tactics used to silence dissent and demands for justice. As the international community becomes increasingly aware of these injustices, there is a growing call for accountability and the protection of human rights in Balochistan.

The situation remains tense, and the family of Zaheer Ahmed Baloch continues to fight for his safe return. Their courage in the face of threats and intimidation is a testament to the resilience of the Baloch people. It is crucial for the global community to stand in solidarity with them, demanding justice and an end to the enforced disappearances that plague Balochistan.