29 Jul 2024 | 06:23 AM UTC
Pakistan: Baloch groups' protest in Gwadar, Balochistan Province, prompts provincewide security curbs and disruptions as of July 29 /update 1
Baloch activists' protesting in Gwadar, Pakistan, as of July 29. Tight security, disruptions, violence reported across Balochistan Province.
Thousands of activists from the Baloch ethnic community are staging an indefinite sit-in at the Padizer Bay area along Marine Drive in Gwadar, Balochistan Province, as of July 29. The action - aimed to protest attempts by security forces to prevent the July 28 "Baloch National Gathering" in Gwadar - is prompting security-related disruptions in several areas across Balochistan Province. Officials are imposing a gathering ban in the provincial capital of Quetta, internet and public movement restrictions in Makran Division comprising Gwadar, and roadblocks on several arterial roads within and connecting to Quetta and Gwadar. Organizers claim several activists have faced arrest, and police actions have injured at least 14 protesters. Additional violence is likely.
Protesters are staging street marches, sit-ins, and road blockades at various sites across Balochistan Province, mainly along inter-provincial highways. Other popular gathering venues for unannounced rallies include entrances and access roads to Gwadar Port, Gwadar International Airport (GWD), Gwadar East Bay Expressway, Lala Hameed Chowk, construction sites of prominent development projects, government buildings, markets, press clubs, public squares, sports grounds, security installations, and university campuses. Local businesses also observed a shutdown strike in various districts like Dalbandin, Kalat, Kharan, Khuzdar, Mangchar, Mastung, Nushki, and Turbat districts July 28; additional localized shutdown strikes affecting business and transport services are possible. Protesters may engage in arson, vandalism, and attacks on vehicles attempting to navigate roadblocks. Associated business and transport disruptions are likely, with ground shipping delays probable during any prolonged blockades.
Authorities will almost certainly monitor any rallies that materialize and may attempt to disperse overly disruptive crowds. Although there is no publicized threat, the risk of terror attacks remains high across Balochistan Province. Opportunistic attacks by militant Baloch separatist groups such as the Balochistan Liberation Army (BLA) may occur. Typical tactics involve suicide bombings targeting convoys or camps of Chinese workers and Pakistani security forces.
Extensions of enhanced security measures, such as preventive arrests, road closures, and temporary restrictions on public movement and internet services, are probable. The tightest security measures are likely in and around residential areas of Chinese workers; security convoys may also escort vehicles ferrying Chinese nationals. Clashes between activists and police are possible. The use of tear gas, batons, rubber bullets, and live ammunition is not uncommon, heightening the risk of incidental risk to bystanders.
Avoid all demonstrations due to the threat of violence. Leave the area at the first sign of any security disturbance. Do not attempt to cross roadblocks, as protesters may react violently. Confirm business appointments, road status, and shipping schedules. Use alternative shipping methods for time-sensitive freight. Follow all instructions from security personnel, including curfew orders. Maintain contact with your diplomatic embassy for updated advisories on specific security threats.
The "Baloch National Gathering" was called over long-standing grievances of the Baloch community, including alleged extrajudicial killings and human rights violations during security operations, underdevelopment, and resource extraction for projects such as the China-Pakistan Economic Corridor. Further protests and related use of force by security personnel are likely in the coming weeks.
