Fresh allegations of heavy-handed security operations have surfaced after six Baloch men from Balochistan and Karachi’s Lyari were reportedly detained by Pakistani authorities, with families claiming the arrests amount to enforced disappearances and politically motivated targeting of Baloch communities.

Relatives of the detained men said that security forces conducted sudden raids and took the individuals into custody without presenting warrants or providing official explanations. Families allege that authorities have refused to disclose their whereabouts, deepening fears of secret detentions and a longstanding concern raised by Baloch activists and human rights groups.

Pakistan’s security agencies have frequently justified arrests in Baloch-majority areas by citing counter-terrorism or anti-militant operations. However, critics argue that such actions often blur the line between legitimate law enforcement and political suppression, particularly when due process and transparency appear absent.

The development has reignited debate over the treatment of Baloch citizens, who have long accused Islamabad of silencing dissent through intimidation, arbitrary arrests and enforced disappearances. Activists say that families are left to search for missing relatives through courts and protests, with little accountability from authorities.

Similar incidents in the past includes allegations of Baloch activists being detained during protests or raids.  This Protests have drawn criticism from rights groups who accuse Pakistani agencies of using excessive force and targeting peaceful organisers under the pretext of national security. 

Opposition voices and human rights advocates have called for independent investigations, transparent legal proceedings and immediate disclosure of the detainees’ condition and location. They warn that continued crackdowns risk deepening alienation in Balochistan and further damaging Pakistan’s already strained human rights reputation.

As families continue to demand answers, observers say the case highlights broader concerns over governance and civil liberties in Pakistan where security imperatives often overshadow constitutional protections and the rule of law.

This image is taken from  Al Jazeera.