The family of Zaheer Ahmed, an occupied govt employee forcibly disappeared on June 27, 2024, has temporarily suspended their protest after receiving assurances from authorities. The family has given a 15-day deadline for filing an FIR against the Counter-Terrorism Department (CTD) and recovering their missing relative.
In a statement, the family warned of launching a widespread movement across Pak-occupied-Balochistan if Zaheer Ahmed is not recovered within the stipulated timeframe. “If Zaheer Ahmed is not found within fifteen days, we will initiate a large-scale movement not only in Quetta but throughout POB,” a family spokesperson said.
The family expressed gratitude to the Baloch community, particularly in Quetta, for their unwavering support during their ten-day sit-in on Saryab Road. They also acknowledged the backing of Baloch leaders who stood with them “day and night in this time of grief.”
The protest, which began with a sit-in and press conferences, escalated when demonstrators marched towards the Red Zone. The rally reportedly faced police violence at two locations, resulting in injuries and arrests of several protesters. In response, thousands gathered in the Red Zone to protest against police brutality and demand Zaheer’s recovery.
The sit-in in the Red Zone was eventually called off after successful negotiations between the family and officials, leading to the current 15-day suspension of protests.
Since 1948, POB has been under Pak Army control and enforced disappearances, marginalization, and extrajudicial killings have been used as tools of oppression against the Baloch community.