Lyari, Karachi, Pakistan – Once renowned for its sports, Lyari has now become a hub of fear due to gang violence and mafia groups. The talented sportsmen of this area, who once aspired to bring pride to the nation, are now facing threats to their very lives.
The Story of "Wrestler Talha Ali"
According to Daily Nawai Wafaq Newspaper (February 12, 2024), Talha Ali, a famous "wrestler" and kickboxer from Lyari who has represented Pakistan in international championships, lived in constant fear for his life. He mentioned that the dangerous environment in Lyari and the threats from gangsters had put him in difficult circumstances. Talha Ali, shared that he and his family received threats from mafia groups, warning that if they did not pay the demanded money, they would be killed. Despite these tensions, he continued to represent his country in international competitions, but his life remained at constant risk.
The 2013 Football Tournament Bomb Blast
On August 7, 2013, during a football tournament in Lyari, a motorcycle bomb exploded, resulting in 11 deaths and 24 injuries. According to BBC News, the target of the blast was a provincial minister, but it tragically claimed the lives of many innocent people, especially young football players. Witnesses reported chaos in the stadium after the blast, with people running in fear for their lives.
The Murder of Boxers Shoaib and Taj
On March 10, 2014, according to Express Tribune Newspaper, Lyari's professional boxers Shoaib and Taj were killed by gangsters simply because they refused to join the gang. Shoaib and Taj, who played for Karachi Electric and had dedicated their lives to sports, paid with their lives for not cooperating with the mafia groups.
The Terrifying Reality of Lyari
For the sportsmen of Lyari, these conditions are not only wasting their talents but also putting their lives at risk. Talha Ali, Shoaib, Taj, and many others have fallen victim to these circumstances. The government and law enforcement agencies must take immediate action to prevent the loss of talent in Lyari.
Sports should be a means to end hatred and violence, but in Lyari, the gang culture has completely destroyed this goal. Today, it is essential to protect the youth and talent of Lyari and provide them with a safe environment to pursue their dreams.