LAHORE - The Human Rights Commission of Pakistan (HRCP) has expressed concern over the reports of civilian casualties in a security forces operation in Kalat district and called details of the operation to be shared.
In a statement issued on Friday, the commission said: “HRCP has noted with concern reports of an operation launched by the Frontier Corps in Johan area of Kalat, where civilian casualties have allegedly occurred.” A spokesperson for the security forces has claimed that 20 militants have been killed in an operation. It is not clear if there had been any casualties among the security forces. However, HRCP has received information that some shopkeepers and farmers have also been killed during the operation.
However, it is difficult to independently verify such reports because the area has been cordoned off.
“It is vital that these disturbing reports are investigated without delay and details shared with the media and the people. In particular, details such as the objective of the operation and the individuals and groups being targeted need to be made public.
“It is also important that the names, numbers and whereabouts of any individuals detained should be made public,” the HRCP demanded.