Tensions rise as reports of three more missing persons emerge from Gwadar, a coastal area in Pakistan-occupied-Balochistan, adding to the growing list of disappearances in the region. The individuals have been identified as Farooq, Altaf, and Kimber. Concerns have been raised about their safety and well-being since they were last seen being detained by security forces yesterday and have not been seen since.
The recent disappearances have only added fuel to the fire, as it comes on the heels of the detention of a Taliban member known as Jabbar, who was also taken into custody by the forces on the same day. A total of six people, including Jabbar and the three individuals mentioned earlier, were allegedly forcibly disappeared following their detention. While two of the detainees were released shortly after, Farooq, Altaf, Kimber, and Jabbar remain unaccounted for.
The practice of enforced disappearances has been a matter of concern in Balochistan for quite some time. Human rights organizations have repeatedly criticized such actions, calling them a violation of basic human rights and demanding transparency and accountability from the authorities. The families of the missing individuals are enduring agonizing uncertainty, seeking information about their loved ones’ whereabouts and well-being.
The situation in Gwadar has become increasingly volatile, drawing attention to the region’s security issues.
In light of these troubling developments, Pakistan Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif visited Gwadar recently. While there has been no official statement released in connection with the disappearances, it is hoped that the high-level visit will prompt a thorough investigation into the matter.
Local communities and human rights activists are organizing protests and voicing their demands for justice and accountability. They are calling on the government to provide answers to the families of the missing individuals and to ensure that those responsible for any unlawful actions are brought to justice.
Following the illegal occupation of Balochistan in March 1948, Balochistan has been fighting the war of its existence. Be it the peaceful way of protests or the armed resistance, against the inhumane authoritarian quasi state of Pakistan, Balochs are fighting an all-front war. Inspired by their sinister interests, almost every organization has turned a blind eye towards the complete devastation of Balochistan.