QUETTA: An anti-terrorism court (ATC) in Quetta on Friday extended the police custody of Dr Mahrang Baloch, a prominent leader of the Baloch Yakjehti Committee (BYC), and five other activists for an additional 15 days.
The court order came in response to a police request during a hearing presided over by ATC Judge Muhammad Ali Mubeen.
The activists — including Gulzadi, Beebow Baloch, Sibghatullah Shahji, Ghaffar Baloch, and Beberg Baloch — were presented before the court as part of an ongoing investigation into serious criminal allegations.
An FIR registered at Saryab Police Station accuses the group of violating Sections 7 and 11W of the Anti-Terrorism Act, as well as 16 sections of the Pakistan Penal Code, which cover terrorism, murder, attempted murder, inciting violence, creating public disorder, promoting racial hatred, and property damage.
Dr Mahrang and 17 other individuals were initially detained under Section 3 of the Maintenance of Public Order (MPO) Ordinance and are being held at Quetta District Jail.
The FIR alleges that BYC leaders assisted rioters who opened fire on police officers, civilians, and fellow protesters — an attack that resulted in three deaths and injuries to at least 15 policemen.
Additionally, the group faces charges related to a violent incident at Quetta’s Civil Hospital in March, where 100 to 150 people allegedly stormed the facility and forcibly took possession of the bodies of individuals involved in the Jaffer Express train bombing. The FIR claims the act was carried out under the instigation of BYC leadership.
Earlier this month, the court had granted a 10-day remand, following which the new extension was issued. Civil society groups continue to call for the release of the activists, condemning the arrests as efforts to silence those demanding justice and fundamental rights for the people of Balochistan.
