Pakistan: Baloch groups to protest in Gwadar, Balochistan Province, July 28

Activists have called for a "Baloch National Gathering" in Gwadar, Balochistan Province, July 28. The action is over grievances of the ethnic 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. Organizers have stated they will defy any official bans to hold the event, likely attracting thousands of participants.

Protesters may stage street marches, sit-ins, and road blockades at various sites, including entrances and access roads to Gwadar Port, Gwadar International Airport (GWD), Gwadar East Bay Expressway, and Lala Hameed Chowk. Other popular gathering venues include construction sites of prominent development projects, government buildings, markets, press clubs, public squares, sports grounds, and security installations. Localized shutdown strikes are possible. Protesters may engage in arson, vandalism, and attacks on vehicles attempting to navigate roadblocks. Associated business and transport disruptions are likely.

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.

Enhanced security measures are probable, such as preventive arrests, road closures, or temporary restrictions on public movement and internet services. 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, with a heightened risk of violence if there are perceived attempts to prevent the gathering.