What Is the “Kill and Dump” Policy in Balochistan?
Tariq Baloch was a well-known car racer from Jiwani in Gwadar district, Balochistan, admired across Pakistan and Iran for his talent in motor racing. On the night of May 11, 2025, he was taken from his guesthouse by Pakistan’s law enforcement agencies. The next morning, his body was found dumped in Palliri, near Jewani. This was not the first time Tariq faced such an incident. In February 2025, he and his brother Salman were detained by Pakistan’s Counter-Terrorism Department but were released due to lack of evidence. Sadly, this time, Tariq did not return alive. His killing has shocked many because he had no political affiliations and was simply a sportsman, showing how even public figures are not safe in Balochistan.
The “kill and dump” policy is a term used to describe a serious human rights issue in Balochistan, Pakistan’s largest but least developed province. It refers to the alleged actions of Pakistani security forces who abduct people, often torture them, and then leave their bodies in remote areas. This tactic is said to target Baloch activists, students, teachers, workers, and even people like Tariq Baloch who are not involved in politics. The Baloch Yakjehti Committee (BYC), a group that speaks for Baloch rights, says this policy is used to silence Baloch voices and stop them from demanding their rights. For example, they want better control over Balochistan’s natural resources and more independence. Many believe this policy has been going on for years, causing fear and anger among the Baloch people.
Why Is There a Global Outcry Over This Issue?
Tariq Baloch’s killing has caused a lot of anger, both in Balochistan and around the world. The BYC has strongly condemned the act, saying it is part of a larger pattern of human rights abuses in the region. In Quetta, a Baloch leader named Mahrang Baloch spoke at a rally, saying, “For every Baloch you murder, many more will rise.” This shows the determination of the Baloch people to keep fighting for justice. Globally, UN experts and human rights groups have also raised concerns. They have asked Pakistan to stop these enforced disappearances and extrajudicial killings and to follow international laws. However, the Pakistani government has not responded to these accusations or shown any willingness to investigate. This silence has made the situation worse, as the Baloch people feel ignored, and the lack of accountability allows such acts to continue.
In conclusion, the killing of Tariq Baloch on May 12, 2025, has brought attention to the serious human rights crisis in Balochistan. The “kill and dump” policy, as described by activists, is a method that creates fear and suppresses the Baloch community. Despite being a celebrated racer with no political ties, Tariq became a victim, proving that no one is safe. The global outcry and calls for action show how urgent this issue is, but without accountability from the Pakistani authorities, the crisis continues to grow. The BYC and other groups are now asking for international help to stop these abuses and bring justice to the Baloch people.
