Protests, including sit-ins, rallies, and road blockades, continue in various parts of Quetta six days after the abduction of an 11-year-old student. The protests show no sign of abating, with the child still missing.

According to media reports, the business community has called for a strike today in solidarity with the affected family and to condemn the abduction.

Governor Balochistan Jaffar Khan Mandokhail has taken notice of the incident and directed Inspector General of Police Moazzam Jah Ansari to ensure the swift and safe recovery of the abducted student. The Governor emphasized that all possible measures should be taken to secure the child’s safe return and bring the perpetrators to justice.

Shahid Rind, spokesperson for the Balochistan government, stated that all agencies are working to recover the student safely. He mentioned that some leads have been obtained but cannot be disclosed at this time, as police and other investigative agencies are actively pursuing them. He expressed hope for the student’s imminent recovery.

Meanwhile, hundreds of protesters, including tribal elders, members of various political parties, lawyers, and civil society activists, have staged a sit-in and set up a camp at Unity Chowk, blocking the main Zarghun Road leading to the provincial capital. Protesters have also blocked the Quetta-Chaman Highway and other areas, causing severe traffic jams across the city.

The protests have severely affected the local population, especially teachers and students, as many schools are located along Zarghun Road. Government employees have also faced difficulties in reaching their offices on time.

In a show of solidarity, the lawyers’ community boycotted court proceedings in the Balochistan High Court and lower courts.