The Baloch National Movement (BNM) has voiced worries about the situation in Jimuri Tehsil of Balochistan’s Gwadar district, alleging a complete siege by the Pakistan Army for a week. This action follows the Baloch Liberation Army’s (BLA) Majeed Brigade attack on a Pakistan Coast Guards camp in Panwan area on July 3, resulting in casualties and injuries. The BNM highlights shortages of medicines and food supplies in Jimuri town and nearby villages due to the ongoing siege.
The BNM accuses the Pakistan Army of various human rights violations in the region, including killings, disappearances, house demolitions, and forced displacements. They claim that the army aims to displace the local population from strategic areas like Jimuri. The group asserts that the army is using attacks by Baloch armed groups as a pretext to target civilians directly, leading to severe restrictions on fundamental rights and freedom of movement.
Describing the events as part of a broader policy of repression in Balochistan, the BNM draws parallels to past incidents along the China-Pakistan Economic Corridor route. They urge international bodies to intervene and ensure Pakistan’s compliance with human rights standards in “occupied Balochistan.” Residents report difficulties in accessing medical treatment and livelihood opportunities due to the imposed restrictions, labeling them as “collective punishment” that affects the entire community.
