Tensions Escalate in Balochistan Amid Allegations of Firing and Protests

The Balochistan government responds to unconfirmed reports of security forces firing in Mustang, leading to 14 injuries. The Baloch Yakjehti Committee plans a national gathering to discuss enforced disappearances, while protests intensify. Hospital officials confirm injuries and activists call for peaceful demonstrations.

Amid unconfirmed reports of security forces firing in the Mustang region, the Balochistan government has reported that 14 individuals have been injured, according to hospital authorities, Dawn revealed. The Baloch Yakjehti Committee (BYC) aims to organize a national gathering in Gwadar on Sunday, drawing political leaders and rights activists nationwide to discuss enforced disappearances.

Since early morning, the BYC has been sharing updates about supporters journeying from various locations towards Gwadar. A spokesperson for the Balochistan government stated, "There are rumors related to firing in Mustang. Reports of firings by security forces remain unverified. The law and order situation in Balochistan is being intentionally compromised."

The government emphasized that no one is above the law and warned of actions against those disrupting peace. It highlighted the legal right to peaceful protest while stressing the need for the BYC to recognize the administration's authority to designate demonstration sites. Meanwhile, BYC posts alleged videos from Mustang claiming security forces engaged in firing and caused damage to vehicles.

The BYC further alleged the abduction of civilians, blocking of communication services, and raiding of homes. Dr. Saeed Ahmed, CEO of Shaheed Nawab Ghous Bakhsh Raisani Memorial Hospital, confirmed 14 injuries due to firing, with five critically injured individuals transferred to Quetta for medical treatment.

BYC member Bebarg Baloch disclosed that demonstrators in Mustang are determined to continue towards Gwadar and have already blocked Quetta's Sariab Road. Protesters in Quetta are urged to join a sit-in at Balochistan University.

BYC organizer Mahrang Baloch called on human rights groups to act swiftly against the incident and encouraged the Baloch community to stage peaceful protests wherever obstructed. "We will indefinitely shut down Balochistan against this brutality," she declared.

Activist Imaan Zainab Mazari-Hazir warned of widespread street protests in Balochistan, criticizing the state's actions as a severe mistake with significant repercussions. (ANI)