06 Aug 2024 | 05:21 PM UTC
Pakistan: Protests likely to continue in Balochistan Province through mid-August despite negotiations /update 3
Protests likely to continue in Balochistan, Pakistan, through mid-August despite negotiations. Road blockades, fuel shortages reported.
Activists affiliated with the Baloch Yakjehti Committee (BYC) are likely to continue their ongoing series of protest campaigns in Balochistan Province through at least mid-August. This is despite successful negotiations between the BYC and government officials to address several demands, including releasing arrested protesters and reopening highways. As of Aug. 6, reports indicate that hundreds of BYC activists are holding indefinite sit-ins and road blockades in several parts of the province, including Gwadar, Hub, Quetta, Nushki, and Turbat. Organizers have asserted that the government should release detained activists without delay and are conducting further negotiations to meet remaining demands.
Sources also suggest that mobile internet services have not been fully restored in the province. Additionally, fuel shortages are occurring in Quetta and other parts of Balochistan as various highways, including the Quetta-Karachi Highway, remain closed. The shortage has prompted long queues at available fuel stations. The Balochistan Petroleum Association has indicated that the situation is likely to improve after Aug. 7, with resupply set to resume. The unrest previously caused business disruptions and a shortage of essential items; further similar interruptions, including shipping delays, are likely if the unrest persists.
Further demonstrations of varying types are likely to continue over the coming days. Potential gathering sites include prominent government buildings, transportation hubs, sites of foreign investment projects, public squares, press clubs, and thoroughfares. Authorities will almost certainly monitor such gatherings and could use force, including baton charges and live ammunition, to disperse overly unruly crowds. Clashes between activists and police are possible. 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 foreign workers and Pakistani security forces.
Exercise increased caution if operating in or near Balochistan Province. Avoid all demonstrations as a standard precaution. Depart the area at the first sign of any security disturbance. Plan accordingly for potential localized transport and business disruptions. Maintain contact with your diplomatic mission. Heed all official transport and security advisories.
