Families protest and demand answers as enforced disappearances persist across Balochistan
Reports of enforced disappearances persist across multiple districts of Balochistan, with families organizing protests and appealing to authorities for the safe recovery of their loved ones. These incidents have sparked widespread concern and condemnation among civil society and human rights organizations.
On the night of 13 November, Pakistani military forces allegedly raided a residence in the Menaz area of Tehsil Buleda, Kech district. During the operation, they detained two brothers, Zaheer and Waseem, both sons of Rahim Jan. Since their detention, their families have been unable to trace their whereabouts, and the individuals remain missing. Family members emphasized that both brothers worked on their family farmland and had no links to any political organizations or parties. They have called for their immediate and safe return.
In a separate incident, on 7 November, poet Ata Anjum, who writes in the Brahui language, was reportedly taken into custody from his home in Mastung by Pakistani armed forces. His family and supporters have expressed grave concern over his disappearance, as his whereabouts remain unknown. The Voice for Baloch Missing Persons (VBMP) strongly condemned the enforced disappearance, calling it a violation of national laws and citizens’ rights. The organization urged the government to take swift action to locate and recover Ata Anjum safely.
In Turbat, a case of disappearance involves Changaiz Imam, a warder at Central Jail Turbat. According to his family, he went missing three days ago after leaving his home in Bag, Turbat, around 1 p.m. on 11 November to report for his duty. Despite efforts to find him, his motorcycle has not been recovered, and his whereabouts remain a mystery. His family has appealed to the public to share any information that could help locate him and ensure his safe return.
Protests and demonstrations continue across Balochistan as families demand the recovery of their loved ones. In Khuzdar, the family of Huzayfa Ghaffar, who was allegedly forcibly disappeared from Naal on 5 November by Pakistani forces, blocked the Naal CPEC road for several hours. The protest caused long queues of vehicles and significant disruption. The protesters demanded the immediate release and safe return of Huzayfa, with the Baloch Yakjehti Committee expressing its support for the demonstration.
Another concerning case involves Pazeer Nasir Plizai, the elected Vice Chairman of Union Council Killi Kocha Buleda in Kech district. He was reportedly subjected to enforced disappearance for the second time. His family states that he went missing on 8 November at around 3 p.m. after dropping his young son at a madrassa in Kohda Yousaf. Since then, his communication has been completely cut off, raising fears for his safety. Notably, Pazeer Nasir had previously been detained in Gwadar on 4 February 2025 and was released on 7 September after a month-long disappearance.
Pazeer Nasir’s earlier detention had led to protests organized by the Haq Do Tehreek Balochistan outside the Deputy Commissioner’s office in Gwadar. The sit-in ended after authorities assured the protesters that they would investigate the matter. Despite the assurances, his current disappearance has revived fears and calls for a thorough inquiry into his case.
Families across the affected districts continue to appeal to the government and relevant authorities for justice. They demand investigations into these incidents, transparency regarding the whereabouts of the missing individuals, and their safe return. Civil society organizations have condemned these enforced disappearances, highlighting the need for accountability and respect for human rights.
The ongoing pattern of enforced disappearances in Balochistan has drawn national and international attention. Human rights groups underscore that such practices violate fundamental rights and legal protections. The families’ persistent protests reflect their desperation and hope for justice amidst a climate of fear and uncertainty.
In conclusion, the situation in Balochistan remains tense, with numerous cases of enforced disappearances causing pain and distress among families and communities. The government’s response and commitment to safeguarding citizens’ rights are being closely watched, as calls for justice and accountability grow louder in the region.
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