ATC grants police 10-day physical remand of Dr Mahrang Baloch, other BYC activists
An anti-terrorism court (ATC) in Quetta has granted police 10-day physical remand of Dr Mahrang Baloch, the head of the Baloch Yakjehti Committee (BYC), and five other members of the group.
The ATC's decision comes as an extension of their ongoing detention, which has already lasted over three months.
During Tuesday's hearing, six BYC members, including Dr Mahrang, were presented before Judge Saadat Bazai. The court approved the prosecutor's request to extend their remand, giving investigators more time for questioning. The other detained activists include Gulzadi, Bebow Baloch, Sibghatullah Shahji, Ghaffar Baloch and Beberg Baloch.
The detainees were represented in court by Advocate Israr Baloch and Advocate Shoaib Baloch, who argued against the prolonged detention. However, the judge ruled in favor of the state, citing the need for further inquiry.
The BYC, known for its activism against enforced disappearances in Balochistan since 2018, has been under increasing scrutiny by law enforcement agencies.
Dr Mahrang and several of her colleagues were initially arrested in March after a protest turned tense near Quetta's Civil Hospital. Authorities have accused them of inciting public disorder and confronting police forces during the demonstration.
Dr Mahrang is currently being held at Quetta's Hudda District Jail under Section 3 of the Maintenance of Public Order (MPO) law—a legal provision that allows preventive detention for individuals considered a threat to public peace.
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