Families in Balochistan’s Kech district staged a sit-in protest for the third day, demanding the recovery of four missing family members. The protest blocked a key section of the China–Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC) in the Tejaban region. The demonstrators accused the district administration of breaking promises made during talks last week.
The missing family members, including a pregnant woman, were reportedly taken by Pakistani forces from different locations. Despite assurances from officials, the missing persons were not recovered, leading to the resumption of the sit-in protest. Protesters rejected claims circulating on social media about the detained individuals planning a suicide attack.
While the world welcomed the New Year, women and children in Balochistan endured the cold to demand justice. Enforced disappearances have been a long-standing concern in the region, drawing criticism from human rights organizations. The closure of the CPEC highway due to the protest caused significant disruptions for local residents and travelers.
The Baloch Yakjehti Committee (BYC) highlighted the ongoing fear and human rights violations faced by the people of Balochistan. They called for solidarity with the affected families and urged international organizations to hold Pakistan accountable for the illegal abductions. The situation reflects the broader issue of enforced disappearances in the region, raising serious humanitarian and rights concerns.
