Deputy Commissioner and SP Kech Defend Action Against Baloch Protesters, Explain Necessity of Crackdown

Turbat: Deputy Commissioner Kech, Bashir Ahmed Baloch, and SP Kech, Zohaib Mohsin, have clarified that the crackdown on the ongoing Baloch protests in the region was a necessary measure after repeated failed attempts to end the protest peacefully. They stated that after several rounds of negotiations with protest organizers, law enforcement had no option but to take action against individuals with political and negative motives, resulting in the arrest of 14 people. Additionally, 5 individuals remain at large and are expected to be arrested soon.

Addressing the media during a press conference on Monday, which was also attended by Additional Deputy Commissioner (Revenue) Kech, Maqbool Anwar Rind, and Assistant Commissioner Turbat, Mohammad Jan Baloch, the officials explained that the protest had been blocking a major highway for five days under the pretext of border issues, causing severe disruptions and financial losses for citizens and traders alike.

The district administration made several attempts to resolve the situation peacefully, engaging directly with protest leaders and working through stakeholders. Viable proposals were put forward, which were welcomed by local traders, political parties, and civil society groups. However, a specific group of protesters, they claimed, had been intentionally thwarting these efforts in order to use the protest as a platform to further their own political agendas, rather than addressing the genuine grievances of the people.

DC Kech Bashir Ahmed Baloch emphasized that the administration understood the challenges faced by the local population, including business owners, due to the blockade. He reiterated that there were no barriers on the administration’s part regarding border issues and that the border had been opened before Eid. However, administrative changes at the border had led to Iranian trucks refusing to cross, causing a delay in trade activities. He assured that negotiations were ongoing, and if Iranian truck owners were willing to return to the previous positions, the border could be re-opened without delay.

The Deputy Commissioner also pointed out that, despite certain logistical challenges and discussions regarding border conditions such as the lack of water and shelters, the protest was being hijacked by political elements with no interest in resolving the issue but rather prolonging it.

SP Kech Zohaib Mohsin further explained that the protest was initially peaceful, but tensions escalated when protestors began throwing stones at the police, injuring five officers. As a result, the police were forced to arrest 14 individuals and restore traffic to the highway. He made it clear that the protest had caused serious disruption, with travelers, patients, and essential supplies being severely impacted.

Moreover, both officials revealed that certain government employees were reportedly involved in the roadblock and protests. Those individuals would face legal action under the Bida Act, and government employees were advised to stay away from such protests in the future.

In response to traders’ concerns, the Deputy Commissioner suggested that an initial batch of 100 vehicles be sent across the border as a demonstration of goodwill, with a full resumption of trade to follow once the situation normalized.

The district administration, they concluded, is committed to fully cooperating with the business community and ensuring the swift resolution of all border-related matters.