Balochistan police arrest man for alleged child marriage of 3-year-old

Police in Chaman, Balochistan, have arrested Abdul Baqi following allegations that he arranged the marriage of his three-year-old daughter, Babbo, to a 60-year-old man named Salah Uddin. The arrangement was reportedly made under the ‘walwar’ custom, a practice involving a bride price paid to the bride’s family, for 2.5 million Pakistani rupees.

Authorities intervened before the full payment was completed. While Baqi is in custody, Salah Uddin remains at large. The three-year-old girl and her mother have been placed under police protection.

The investigation has expanded to include the death of the child’s 13-year-old sister, Shukria Bibi. Police have arrested Kamran, the son of Salah Uddin, on suspicion of killing Shukria. Investigators are looking into whether the death was linked to disputes regarding previous marriage arrangements made under the same custom.

Despite legislation in Balochistan banning marriage under the age of 18, the case highlights the ongoing challenges posed by customary practices and poverty in the region.