Quetta ATC Extends Custody of Mahrang Baloch and BYC Activists Until August

By
Abdul Rafay
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Mahrang Baloch at a press conference highlighting the struggle of Baloch families dealing with the issue of forced disappearances. Her activism continues to bring attention to human rights violations. (Source: Awaz The Voice)

The Anti-Terrorism Court (ATC) in Quetta has extended the physical remand of Dr. Mahrang Baloch, the leader of the Baloch Yakjehti Committee (BYC), and several other activists for an additional 15 days. The group is accused of involvement in violent protests, terrorism, and other criminal activities, with their detention now extended until early August.

On Friday, the ATC in Quetta ruled to extend the police custody of Dr. Mahrang Baloch and five other BYC activists by 15 days. The extension comes after an FIR was filed against the group for violations of sections under the Anti-Terrorism Act, including charges of terrorism, murder, attempted murder, inciting violence, rebellion, and promoting racial hatred. These charges stem from a series of violent incidents, including attacks on police officers and civilians.

Mahrang Baloch addresses a crowd of women holding portraits of their missing loved ones. The protest highlights the ongoing issue of enforced disappearances in Balochistan.”
(Source: Observer Diplomat)

Mahrang Baloch, along with 17 others, was arrested and is currently being held in Quetta District Jail under the Maintenance of Public Order (MPO) Ordinance. The group is accused of aiding rioters who killed three individuals and injured 15 police officers during violent protests. Additionally, they are facing charges related to the chaotic incident at the Civil Hospital in Quetta, where they allegedly led a mob to take bodies from the morgue of attackers involved in the Jaffer Express train bombing.

In the latest court session, Mahrang and other activists, including Gulzadi, Beebow Baloch, Sibghatullah Shahji, Ghaffar Baloch, and Beberg Baloch, were presented before ATC Judge Muhammad Ali Mubeen. Following a request from the police, the judge extended their remand, ensuring they remain in custody until at least early August.

This case follows a series of actions by civil society, with over 100 members calling on Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif in March to take immediate action for the release of the detained BYC leaders. In a joint letter to the Prime Minister, the signatories condemned the arrests, describing them as attempts to silence calls for the end of enforced disappearances and the demand for fundamental rights for the people of Balochistan.

Mahrang Baloch smiles during a gathering in Balochistan. She has been a vocal advocate for the families of missing persons and the issue of enforced disappearances.
(Source: Awaz The Voice)