Protests Erupt in Balochistan Over Enforced Disappearances

The Levies personnel in Gwadar, Balochistan, have initiated a protest after two members, Doda Khalid and Zakir Yaqoob, allegedly vanished in military custody. This incident, along with other recent abductions in the region, amplifies concerns about systematic enforced disappearances conducted by Pakistani forces.

In Balochistan, tensions have escalated as Levies personnel in Gwadar protest the alleged enforced disappearance of two colleagues, Doda Khalid and Zakir Yaqoob, by Pakistani armed forces. The absence of these locally recruited officials, vital to security in tribal areas, has sparked outcry and refusal to report for duty.

The situation intensified with the reported disappearance of three civilians, Meraj Noor Bakhsh, Ijaz Hussain, and Ayub Hamza, alongside the Levies officers. Demonstrations took place outside the Deputy Commissioner's office, as personnel sought the safe return of their colleagues. This unrest occurs amid continued reports of abductions.

In a separate incident in Turbat, Kech district, a young man named Anees was reportedly abducted by armed individuals. His situation reflects a broader pattern of enforced disappearances in Balochistan, where activists blame military forces for suppressing autonomy demands, fostering fear among locals and undermining trust in state authorities.

(With inputs from agencies.)