A newly released report by the Balochistan Human Rights Campaign has shed light on the alarming conditions faced by Baloch Sukhtbars in 1403 (Iranian Calendar).
The report documents the deaths of at least 228 individuals, 118 injuries, and 114 arrests among those engaged in Sukhtbari along Iran’s southeastern border.
According to the report, 61 deaths were caused by direct military fire, pursuit by security forces, landmine explosions, or other state-related actions. The remaining 167 fatalities resulted from vehicle overturns, traffic accidents, or fuel-related explosions.
Among the victims were 16 children under the age of 18, highlighting the exploitative involvement of minors in this perilous livelihood a stark indicator of the economic desperation that drives entire families into the trade.
The report once again draws urgent attention to the harsh socio-economic conditions in Balochistan, where lack of infrastructure, employment, and state support leaves many with no alternative but to risk their lives smuggling fuel to support their households.
