A human rights organization strongly criticized the killing of unarmed civilians, including a child, in a Pakistani military drone strike in Balochistan. The attack on February 1 targeted residential areas, resulting in casualties among women and elderly individuals. The organization emphasized that such actions violate international humanitarian law and constitute a war crime.
The Human Rights Council of Balochistan expressed deep concern over the alarming situation in Balochistan, exacerbated by an internet shutdown hindering information verification. Reports from various districts, including Kech, Gwadar, and Nushki, suggest civilian casualties due to indiscriminate firing by Pakistani security forces. The council called for transparent investigations and accountability under international law.
The lack of transparency regarding casualty figures raised concerns, with conflicting reports between the government and other sources. The council urged the government to provide detailed information and identities of those reportedly killed. Additionally, doubts were cast on claims of militants killed, citing a history of individuals being labeled as militants post-custody deaths.
The Baloch National Movement’s Human Rights Department highlighted the enforced disappearances of civilians by Pakistani forces. Recent cases include the disappearance of a fisherman and a student in Gwadar and Quetta, respectively. The organization strongly condemned these actions and demanded information on the whereabouts of the missing individuals. Instances of forced disappearances involving brothers and prominent local figures were also reported, further raising concerns about human rights violations in the region.
