Two leaders of a Baloch rights group have been sentenced to life imprisonment by a Pakistani anti-terrorism court over the killing of a paramilitary soldier during a protest in 2024, a verdict that is likely to intensify debate over human rights and security in the restive province of Balochistan.
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Mahrang Baloch and Sibghatullah Shah, leaders of the Baloch Yakjehti Committee (BYC), were convicted in connection with the death of Shabbir Baloch, a paramilitary soldier who was killed during a BYC-led rally in the coastal city of Gwadar last year. The pair had previously been indicted on charges including terrorism, sedition and murder.
According to prosecutors, the activists incited a crowd that later attacked a security vehicle, seized the soldier and beat him to death using sticks and bricks. Investigators said the protest had been organised without official permission and that the two leaders played a direct role in mobilising demonstrators.
Both activists denied the allegations throughout the trial. However, provincial government spokesperson Shahid Rind said the prosecution had presented "undeniable evidence" linking them to the incident.
“This was not a case concerning political opinion, peaceful dissent or the right to protest. It concerned the murder of a soldier,” Rind said, adding that both defendants have the right to appeal the verdict.
Trial moved amid security concerns
The case was initially heard in Gwadar but was later transferred to a high-security prison in Quetta, the capital of Balochistan, after authorities cited security concerns. Prosecutors said court proceedings were repeatedly disrupted by demonstrations organised by BYC supporters and alleged attempts to intimidate witnesses. Following the transfer, witnesses and the accused testified through video links.
