Pakistan: Chinese national reportedly detained in Dasu, Kohistan District, as of April 17 following protests over alleged blasphemy

Event

Local media reports indicate that police have detained a Chinese national as of April 17 in Dasu, Kohistan District, Khyber Pakhtunkhwa Province. The detainee is an engineer in the Dasu hydropower project employed by the China Gezhouba Group Company. Authorities purportedly detained him pending investigations into alleged blasphemy of Islam during an argument with a local employee, after unruly protests outside his worksite and disruptive blockades along the National Highway 35 the evening of April 16. While the blockades that significantly affected transit between the area and the rest of the country were lifted in four hours, additional protests remain possible. It is unclear if local elders will file an official complaint, and when the Chinese national will be released.

Demonstrations may occur at worksites in the Dasu hydropower project area, as well as along highways connecting Khyber Pakhtunkhwa to other areas. Security forces typically deploy to well-attended protests, ad may use force to disperse especially disruptive crowds. Violent clashes, as well as attacks on personnel or buildings related to the detained worker cannot be ruled out. Additional road blockades may disrupt passenger and freight transit, with prolonged actions potentially disrupting business operations.

Dasu is approximately 210 km (130 miles) northeast of Peshawar.

Context

Blasphemy is a non-bailable offence in Pakistan, with convicted individuals facing up to a life sentence and/or penalties up to 1 million rupees (3533 USD). People charged with or accused of blasphemy typically are at heightened risk of threats and violent attacks. Notably, a Sri Lankan national accused of desecrating a religious poster in Sialkot was killed by a mob in December 2021. The security risk remains high across Pakistan.

Advice

Follow all local laws. Remain mindful of local customs and religious sensitivities.