QUETTA: The man who had been labeled as a “missing person” by activist Mahrang Ghaffar and used as a symbol in protests against the state was confirmed dead in a security operation on July 10. According to official sources, the individual was actively involved with the banned Baloch Liberation Army (BLA) and was killed during an encounter with security forces in a mountainous area of Balochistan.
The BLA has officially confirmed his death, validating claims long made by security analysts that many so-called “missing persons” are, in fact, affiliated with terrorist networks.
This individual had been declared “missing” on November 3, 2023, by Mahrang Ghaffar, who led protests, road blockades, and online campaigns portraying him as a victim of enforced disappearance. The case was widely used to target and malign Pakistan’s security institutions in national and international forums.
However, the recent encounter has exposed the reality behind the narrative. Far from being a victim, the man had joined a militant outfit and taken up arms against the state. Intelligence sources indicate that he had been operating from remote hideouts and was involved in planning attacks on security forces and civilians.
“This case once again proves that the ‘missing persons’ issue is being misused to protect and glorify those who have chosen terrorism over peace,” said a senior security official on condition of anonymity.
Officials further stated that this tactic—where terrorists are declared missing and later used to build pressure on the state—has become a recurring pattern. Many such individuals voluntarily join banned outfits, and later their families, particularly women, are seen leading protests, often backed by foreign-funded NGOs and activist groups.
“These men commit cold-blooded killings, drag passengers off buses, and execute innocent laborers. Yet, when action is taken, they’re called ‘missing’ instead of terrorists,” the official added.
This development comes at a time when the state is facing heightened militant activity, especially in Balochistan. Security forces continue to conduct intelligence-based operations across the province to dismantle networks backed by foreign elements, including Indian intelligence.
The case has reignited debate over the politicization of the “missing persons” issue in Pakistan. Many are now calling for a clearer distinction between genuine victims of disappearances and those who use the label to shield armed insurgents.
