Balochistan: Rights group reports 234 disappearances, 87 killings

A Human Rights Council of Balochistan report for Feb 2026 alleges a sharp rise in rights abuses, with 234 enforced disappearances and 87 extrajudicial killings, following security operations after attacks by the Baloch Liberation Army.

Balochistan [Pakistan], April 1 (ANI) A recent report by the Human Rights Council of Balochistan (HRCB) has raised serious concerns over escalating human rights violations in the province, alleging a sharp rise in enforced disappearances and extrajudicial killings during February 2026. At least 234 individuals were forcibly disappeared, while 87 people were killed within the month, as reported by The Balochistan Post.

According to The Balochistan Post, the report highlights that victims included one woman and nine teenagers, with the overwhelming majority being men. Only a small number of those abducted reportedly resurfaced, leaving most still unaccounted for.

HRCB described these abuses as routine, asserting that such incidents have become a persistent feature of life in Balochistan.

Security Crackdown Follows Insurgent Attacks

The spike in violations followed coordinated attacks by the Baloch Liberation Army in late January, after which security forces launched extensive operations. These actions allegedly included curfews, communication blackouts, and heavy use of force, resulting in civilian casualties.

Widespread Raids and Arbitrary Detentions Alleged

The report accuses security agencies of conducting widespread raids, arbitrary detentions, and destruction of property. It further alleges mistreatment of civilians, including women and children, during these operations.

HRCB claims that many detainees were later killed in what it terms staged encounters, a pattern it views as deliberate and systematic. Students and working-class individuals were disproportionately affected.

Quetta recorded the highest number of cases, followed by districts such as Nushki, Kech, and Gwadar. Authorities reportedly labelled many detainees as "suspects" without providing legal clarity on their status.

Details of Killings and Torture

The killings documented included instances of indiscriminate firing, custodial deaths, and alleged fake encounters. Several victims reportedly showed signs of torture.

The report also notes civilian deaths during military actions, including women and children killed in residential areas, as highlighted by The Balochistan Post.

Official Claims Disputed Amidst Silence

In addition, HRCB questioned official claims regarding arrests linked to insurgent groups, suggesting some individuals had previously been missing before being presented as suspects.

Pakistani authorities have not issued an official response to these allegations, as reported by The Balochistan Post. (ANI)

(Except for the headline, this story has not been edited by Asianet Newsable English staff and is published from a syndicated feed.)