Islamabad: At least one Pakistani soldier was killed and 16 others, including an officer, were injured when protesters attacked army personnel during a rally in restive Balochistan province on Monday.
The incident took place when a “violent mob dressed in the so-called Baloch Raj Muchi (Baloch National Rally) costumes” attacked security personnel on security duty in Gwadar area where the rally was being held.
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The deceased soldier was identified as a 30-year-old soldier from Sibi district of the state.
“In addition, 16 soldiers, including one officer, were injured in unprovoked attacks by violent protesters,” the army said in a statement.
“Fake and malicious propaganda is being spread on social media using doctored photos and videos by propagandist activists to gain sympathy and support for the illegal violent march,” the military said.
“Despite provocation, security forces showed extreme restraint to avoid unjustified civilian casualties,” the military said, adding that “acts of mob violence are unacceptable and those responsible will be brought to justice.”
The military urged the public not to fall prey to propaganda, to remain calm and peaceful, and to cooperate with law enforcement agencies in maintaining public safety and order.
He said security forces are determined to thwart any attempt to disrupt peace and stability in Balochistan.
Balochistan Chief Minister Sarfaraz Bugti condemned the violence during the Gwadar protests and invited organiser Dr Mahlangu Baloch for negotiations.
Addressing the Balochistan Assembly, he said protesters will not be allowed to hold the province hostage.
“The country will not be held hostage by anyone but in the interest of peace, we will again invite Maran Baloch for negotiations,” he said.
The protests have turned violent, with Dawn reporting that the previous day, protesters from the Baloch Yakuza Committee (BYC) clashed with security forces in different parts of the province, leaving at least three people dead and several injured.
Dawn newspaper quoted sources as saying that security forces stopped a convoy at Talal checkpoint, leaving two people dead and several injured.
Authorities had maintained that security forces were trying to defend themselves from insurgents who had allegedly attacked the checkpoint.
One person was killed and eight injured in clashes after authorities used tear gas to disperse people gathered on Marine Drive.
At least 20 people were arrested. The protest was organised by the BYC and despite authorities blocking the road, large numbers of people gathered from across the province at Marine Drive in Gwadar to take part in the Balochistan National Rally to show support for Balochistan’s rights.
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