The Baloch Liberation Army (BLA) has categorically denied any involvement in the recent attack on Zakir Baloch, Deputy Commissioner of Panjgur, which resulted in his death. The BLA asserts that Zakir Baloch was never on their list of targets and condemns the attempt of Pak Army and its occupied-govt to link their group to the incident.
In a recent statement, BLA spokesperson Jeeyand Baloch said that the Pakistan military and occupied-local government of spreading propaganda to falsely associate the BLA with the attack. The group emphasized that it publicly claims responsibility for its actions through official channels, and any incidents not claimed by the BLA should be considered unrelated to their organization.
The BLA condemned the military for its deceitfulness and hypocrisy, contrasting this with the BLA’s commitment to revolutionary ethical standards.
Zakir Baloch’s Death
The attack on Zakir Baloch occurred in the context of discussions about the Baloch Yakjehti Conference (BYC) sit-in in Panjgur. During these discussions, Zakir Baloch said, “I am the representative of the Baloch nation, not the government” and had previously condemned violence and the crackdown on peaceful protesters.
BYC leader Mahrang Baloch has strongly condemned the killing, expressing solidarity with Zakir Baloch’s family. Baloch society mourns the loss of Zakir Baloch, describing the incident as part of a broader trend of violence against Baloch youth. “Our educated youth are being murdered daily, reducing their lives to mere statistics of violence,” Mahrang said.
The statement continued, “The situation has deteriorated to the point where being a Baloch is enough to warrant execution. Balochistan weeps for Deputy Commissioner Zakir Baloch, a true hero whose life was tragically cut short. His dedication to peace and progress will never be forgotten.”
Reports suggest that Zakir Baloch, who had led negotiations with BYC leader Mahrang Baloch, was killed by the Pakistan Army due to his support for addressing Baloch grievances. The incident has further fueled outrage and grief within the Baloch community.