Hundreds of residents, political workers, traders and civil society activists took to the streets in Panjgur on Sunday to protest against rising incidents of kidnapping for ransom and what participants described as a deteriorating law and order situation in the district.
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The demonstration was organised by the All Parties Citizen Action Committee of Makran in response to the abduction of local notable Gul Jan Rind and several other individuals in recent weeks. Protesters gathered at the main Bismillah Chowk before marching through key roads and streets, holding placards and banners and chanting slogans demanding action from authorities.
The rally was led by APCACM Chairman Nawab Shambay Zai alongside leaders from JUI, BNP, National Party, Jamaat-i-Islami, PML-N, Haq Do Tehreek and PPP. Addressing the crowd, speakers called for the immediate and safe recovery of Shah Nawaz Gul and other abducted residents, questioning the effectiveness of law enforcement despite the availability of modern tracking and surveillance technologies.
Protest leaders criticised the provincial government and security agencies for what they described as delayed and insufficient action. They argued that had timely steps been taken by the administration, victims would have been recovered. Participants said the worsening security climate had instilled fear among residents, claiming that people no longer felt safe regarding their life, property or dignity.
Several speakers also referred to earlier incidents, including the killing of Waleed Saleh, whose assailants have yet to be identified. They noted that the son of prominent peace activist Gul Jan had been abducted from Turbat nearly two months ago and that appeals from political stakeholders had gone unanswered.
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Protesters demanded swift intervention from the Balochistan chief minister, the inspector general of police, Makran commissioner and district officials to ensure the recovery of abductees and restoration of security in Panjgur and neighbouring areas.