06 Jan 2025 | 04:03 AM UTC
Pakistan: Activists to hold march and blockade in Gwadar, Balochistan Province, Jan. 6
Protest planned in Gwadar, Balochistan Province, Pakistan, Jan. 6. Increased security, localized disruptions likely. Violence possible.
Activists plan to march towards and block the Gwadar East Bay Expressway in Gwadar District, Balochistan Province, Jan. 6. Organizers are demanding the recovery of a local who has reportedly been missing since early November. Several dozen relatives and members of the Baloch ethnic community have held a related sit-in near the Gwadar Port in recent days and marched along Fish Harbour Road Jan. 5. Further demonstrations, including localized shutdown strikes, street marches, and additional blockades, are probable in the coming days.
Popular rally sites include entrances and access roads to Gwadar Port, Gwadar International Airport (GWD), Gwadar East Bay Expressway, Lala Hameed Chowk, military facilities, press clubs, public squares, as well as along National Highway 10 (N-10 or Makran Coastal Highway). Sit-ins may be extended indefinitely at short notice, prompting prolonged travel delays along interprovincial highways.
Authorities will monitor any rallies that materialize and may attempt to disperse overly disruptive crowds. Protesters may engage in arson, vandalism, and attacks on vehicles trying to navigate roadblocks. Enhanced security measures, such as road closures or temporary restrictions on public movement and telecommunication 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. Further localized shipping delays may occur.
Avoid all demonstrations due to possible violence. Leave the area at the first sign of any security disturbance. Do not attempt to cross roadblocks, as protesters may react violently. Avoid large concentrations of security personnel and other sensitive sites that are potential terror targets. Plan for localized business and transport disruptions, especially near the Gwadar Port and along the N-10 highway. Confirm business appointments, road status, and shipping schedules. Use alternative shipping methods for time-sensitive freight. Follow all instructions from security personnel.
