Web Desk: Social media claims alleging that a Baloch separatist armed group had taken control of the entire town of Chagai in Pakistan’s southwestern Balochistan province, including police, Levies headquarters and other government buildings, have been found to be false, according to an independent fact-check.
The claims, widely circulated on social media, were attributed to a statement purportedly issued by a spokesperson for the armed group. The statement alleged that the group had seized full control of Chagai, captured police and Levies facilities, taken over several government buildings and confiscated weapons from security forces.
However, independent fact-checking organisation Azad Fact Check said the allegations did not match verified information or available evidence.
The organisation said its assessment found no credible evidence supporting the claims that the town had fallen under the control of the armed group or that government installations had been captured.
As a result, it classified the circulating claims as false and misleading.
The incident highlights the growing spread of misinformation during security-related developments.
They urged the public to avoid relying on unverified social media posts and instead seek information from credible and verified sources, particularly when reports involve sensitive security matters.
The false claims circulating online can create unnecessary panic and confusion, underscoring the importance of fact-checking before sharing information.