Tensions Rise in Balochistan as Pakistani Forces Raid Turbat University

Pakistani security forces conducted a raid at Turbat University in Balochistan, specifically targeting the women’s hostel. The raid was part of an investigation into Mahal Baloch, also known as Zilan Kurd, who was involved in a recent suicide attack by the Baloch Liberation Army (BLA) Majeed Brigade on a Pakistani army base in Bela.

Students at the university reported that the forces interrogated them about Mahal Baloch’s presence and life at the hostel. They also claimed that their rooms were searched and multiple items were stolen from Mahal Baloch’s room during the operation.

Mahal Baloch, a law student from Gwadar, was part of the BLA’s ‘Operation Herof’ and carried out a suicide attack on a central Pakistani forces camp in Bela.

The administration of Turbat University has not commented on the raid or the reported harassment of students. Meanwhile, leading Baloch activist Mahrang Baloch stated that the Baloch Yakhjeti Committee (BYC) opposes violence. She emphasized that both she and the BYC are committed to non-violence and believe that the solution to the issues in Balochistan lies in the rule of law.

‘From the last few days, there has been a significant amount of criticism regarding our stance on the violence against unarmed civilians in Balochistan. From day one, my position has been very clear: we are peaceful activists committed to non-violence. Both BYC and I strongly oppose any form of violence, regardless of ethnicity, race, political, or religious affiliation. The solution to Balochistan conundrum lies in the rule of law, which those in power don’t want because chaos strengthens their grip on power,’ Mahrang Baloch said in a post on X.