Violent crackdown in Bandar-Kalahi: Dozens of Baloch citizens injured and arrested amid ongoing security raids

 Hengaw - Tuesday, May 13, 2025
 
For a third consecutive day, security forces of the Islamic Republic have carried out a heavy-handed operation in Bandar-Kalahi, Minab County, Hormozgan Province, resulting in the injury and arrest of dozens of Baloch citizens, including women and children. The assaults have been accompanied by widespread property destruction and looting.
 
According to reports received by the Hengaw Organization for Human Rights, on Tuesday, May 13, 2025, security forces intensified their offensive in the region. Multiple residents, including minors, were wounded by direct gunfire, and many others were detained. One of the injured has been identified as 15-year-old Rouhollah Malahi, who was shot in the back with pellet ammunition.
 
The crackdown began on Saturday, May 10, with security units and special forces deploying armored vehicles, bulldozers, and military-grade weapons. Citing fuel smuggling as justification, the forces have laid siege to the area, destroyed fishing equipment, torched motorcycles used for fuel transport, and opened fire on civilians.
 
Visual evidence shows numerous individuals, including children and women, suffering injuries from direct attacks. Security personnel have also used tear gas and physical violence to disperse protests. Women who demonstrated against the operation were reportedly met with severe beatings and suppression.
 
Eyewitnesses report that homes were stormed without court warrants. Personal belongings, including cash and jewelry, were looted in the process. Property destruction and arson have been widely documented.
 
Reliable sources confirm a significant disruption of internet access in the area, further isolating the community. The security presence remains heavy, and the crackdown is ongoing. The identities of many of those arrested have yet to be confirmed.