Mahrang Baloch sentenced to life imprisonment
A court in Quetta has reportedly sentenced senior leaders of the Baloch Yakjehti Committee (BYC) to life imprisonment in a terrorism-related case, according to posts circulating on social media and local reports.
Those reportedly convicted include BYC chief Dr Mahrang Baloch, Sibghatullah Shah Ji and Balach Qadir.
The reported verdict was issued by an anti-terrorism court in Quetta. However, details regarding the specific charges, the court's written judgment and the legal basis for the sentences were not immediately made public.
The Baloch Yakjehti Committee is a rights advocacy group that has campaigned against enforced disappearances and alleged human rights violations in Balochistan. Its leadership has faced multiple legal challenges since March 2025, when authorities arrested several members following protests in Quetta.
Pakistani authorities have accused BYC leaders of inciting violence, attacking public property and violating provisions of anti-terrorism laws. The organisation has repeatedly rejected the allegations, maintaining that its movement is peaceful and focused on securing justice for missing persons.
Legal proceedings involving BYC leaders have drawn significant national and international attention, with rights organisations previously expressing concern over their detention and access to due process.
It remains unclear whether the defence team plans to challenge the reported convictions before a higher court. Under Pakistani law, verdicts issued by anti-terrorism courts can be appealed in the relevant high court.
Neither the Baloch Yakjehti Committee nor government officials had released a detailed statement on the reported ruling at the time of publication.
This is a developing story and further details are expected as official court documents become available.