Pakistan: Migrants rescued from Balochistan separatists Nov. 20

Event

Pakistani officials reported on Monday, November 20, that security forces rescued 18 people being held by separatist militants in the Turbat region of Balochistan province. The majority of those held were originally kidnapped while trying to illegally cross into Iran en route to Europe.

Context

The separatists seek independence for Balochistan province. On November 15, authorities recovered the bodies of at least 15 migrants allegedly murdered by the militants, spurring Monday's intervention by security forces.

Balochistan province, located in southwestern Pakistan, has experienced high levels of violence in recent months and years due to its position along a major arms smuggling route and proximity to the country's borders with Afghanistan and Iran. Car bombs, suicide bombings, and armed attacks are common, and often target the Balochistan Frontier Corps, local police forces, and lawyers.

Advice

Due to the high threat of terrorism and other forms of violent crime, individuals in Pakistan are advised to report any suspicious objects or behavior to the relevant authorities (their diplomatic mission or security manager). As a reminder, all Western embassies in Pakistan advise their citizens against nonessential travel to the country. Travel to the country should only be considered with proper security protocols in place.