Protesters Block Highway Demanding Safe Return of Abducted Zaheer Baloch

Protesters led by the Baloch Yakjehti Committee have blocked the main highway linking Quetta to Karachi, demanding the safe return of Zaheer Ahmed Baloch. Human rights activists condemn the Pakistan police's violent response to peaceful demonstrations. The incident has sparked outrage and raised concerns about human rights in Balochistan.

Protesters organized by the Baloch Yakjehti Committee (BYC) have obstructed the primary highway linking Quetta to Karachi (N-25) near the Sona Khan area. The demonstration aims to demand the safe return of Zaheer Ahmed Baloch, who was allegedly abducted by Counter Terrorism Department (CTD) personnel.

On Saturday, the BYC took to social media, stating, 'The main highway connecting Quetta to Karachi (N-25) has been obstructed near Sona Khan. Zaheer Baloch's family and BYC members pledged to block highways if their demands were not met. Their main appeal is the secure release of Zaheer Baloch.' Zaheer, a government employee for over 15 years and a father of two, was reportedly abducted on June 27 while returning home from work.

Recently, Pakistani police brutally attacked a peaceful protest organized by the Baloch community on Saryab Road, Quetta, for Zaheer's safe return. The police's response to the peaceful protest drew widespread condemnation. Social media is now filled with posts from human rights activists criticizing Pakistan's actions. PAANK, the Human Rights Wing of the Baloch National Movement, emphasized the government's scrutiny for its treatment toward peaceful protestors, sparking outrage over human rights violations.

Earlier, Mahrang Baloch, representing the BYC, announced the plans for a Baloch National Gathering in Gwadar on July 28. In a video statement, she highlighted the committee's opposition to what they term as the ongoing genocide against the Baloch community, mentioning direct violence, neglect-related deaths, and economic hardships.

On July 11, the Human Rights Commission of Pakistan (HRCP) also condemned the event, criticizing Pakistan's use of violence to stifle protests against enforced disappearances. The HRCP stated the state has failed to end the practice of enforced disappearances and has violated the constitutional rights of citizens to assemble peacefully.

(With inputs from agencies.)