Baloch Fuel Carrier Killed After Military Chase Leads to Fatal Rollover and Fire in Manujan
Baloch Fuel Carrier Killed After Military Chase Leads to Fatal Rollover and Fire in Manujan
According to the Balochistan Human Rights Group, a Baloch fuel carrier lost his life in a vehicle fire on August 15, 2026, following a pursuit by military forces in the Khosrowabad area (Karam Pass) near Manujan County.
The victim has been identified as Kourosh Miri (Balochzehi), a resident of Rudbar-e Jonub County, as confirmed by Rasanank.
Sources report that Kourosh was driving a Nissan pickup truck along the Hashtbandi-Manujan road when two unmarked vehicles belonging to military forces began pursuing him. The chase continued into the Khosrowabad area at Karam Pass.
During the pursuit, Kourosh’s vehicle rolled over and immediately caught fire. Trapped inside, he burned to death before rescuers could reach him.
Background Context
Fuel carrying (Sookhtbari) remains one of the few viable livelihoods in southeastern Iran due to severe economic deprivation, though drivers face extreme safety and security hazards:
- 2025 Casualty Toll: At least 173 fuel carriers were killed and 132 injured throughout 2025.
- Road Accidents: Traffic crashes claimed 131 lives and injured 80 others.
- Military Interventions: Direct military actions—including shootings, landmine explosions, vehicular pursuits, and physical assaults—resulted in 37 deaths and 44 injuries.
- Other Incidents: Drowning accounted for 2 deaths; isolated fires led to 1 death and 7 injuries; and armed attacks by unidentified individuals resulted in 2 deaths and 1 injury.
- Arrests: At least 211 fuel carriers were detained by authorities over the same period.
