UN human rights experts have expressed alarm regarding the enforced disappearance, torture, and extrajudicial killing of Imran Ali, a man from Balochistan. They are calling on the Pakistani government to conduct a swift, independent, and impartial investigation into the circumstances surrounding his detention and subsequent death. This incident has sparked significant international attention and concern over human rights practices in the region.
Concerns Raised Over Enforced Disappearances in Pakistan
During a hearing on August 6, 2026, before Pakistan’s Commission of Inquiry on Enforced Disappearances, new details emerged regarding the case of Ali, who was reportedly killed in an alleged police encounter in May 2026. A police officer provided this information to the commission, reigniting public interest in the circumstances surrounding Ali’s death.
Additionally, UN experts have expressed alarm over the handling of six other bodies that were reportedly brought to a hospital alongside Ali’s. They noted that these bodies were not properly documented or reported by hospital staff or police, leading to their burial without identification or notification to the deceased’s relatives. This raises significant concerns about transparency and accountability in cases of enforced disappearances in Pakistan.
UN Confirms Ali’s Abduction and Torture in Pakistan
The Office of the UN High Commissioner for Human Rights (OHCHR) has confirmed that Ali was abducted from his apartment in Pakistan on August 27, 2025, by approximately 20 personnel from the Counter-Terrorism Department (CTD). His family was not given any official information regarding his location after the abduction.
According to UN experts, individuals who were previously detained alongside Ali have reported that he was held in custody and allegedly subjected to torture for several days.
Following these developments, Ali’s family visited Civil Hospital Quetta, where they were able to identify him from photographs in the hospital’s records.
Calls for Forensic Investigation into Ali’s Death
Experts are urging for independent forensic examinations following the death of Ali. They emphasize the importance of properly identifying his remains and ensuring a dignified return to his family. Additionally, they advocate for a thorough investigation to uncover the cause and circumstances surrounding his death, as well as to identify those responsible for the incident.
