Our lives are at risk because each group wants us to be on their side, say residents. PHOTO: AYESHA MIR/THE EXPRESS TRIBUNE
As the so-called ceasefire came to an end late Saturday night with gunfire and rockets reverberating in the area, around 300 families emptied their residence and loaded their belongings on cars, vans and even pushcarts to leave on Sunday.
The gang war between the notorious gangster, Baba Ladla, and PAC started on October 24 when law enforcers were conducting raids in Lyari. Trying to avoid arrests, members of Uzair Baloch’s group fled to the area dominated by Baba Ladla. As soon as they entered Baba Ladla’s turf, his gang members opened fire on their rivals which started the three-day war. At least 21 people, including gang members as well by passers-by, were killed.
A temporary ceasefire was agreed upon by both groups but their ‘morchas’ remained in their areas, marking their power and territorial control.
Stuck in the middle
The affected families reside in Singu Lane, Maula Madad Road, Kumhar Wara, Aath Chowk, Baghdadi, Chakiwara and Jhat Pat Market which fall in Uzair Baloch’s domain, and Eidu Lane, Phool Patti Lane, Ahmed Shah Bukhari Road and Amn Park which is controlled by Baba Ladla. The bordering areas include alFalah Road, Gulistan Colony and Tenary Road.
At least 300 families have already migrated while many more were planning to move as they believe that the gang war between both groups could escalate anytime.
“At least we can move right now. When the war is at its peak, we won’t get the chance,” said Yousuf Baloch, a resident of Phool Patti Lane. The residents told The Express Tribune that they had been also been warned they would not be allowed to come back.
“Since the time of Rehman Dakait and Arshad Pappu, the gangs used us, especially our women and children, as shields,” said another resident, Imran Baloch. “But at least back then, you knew who the enemy was. Now, since the fight is within PAC, we’re caught in the middle as we’re being asked to declare our loyalty. Even if we are neutral, we are at the risk of becoming casualties of war.”
A resident of Eidu Lane explained that in the earlier wars, the damage was mostly to properties but now, lives were also at risks as both sides were highly paranoid about informants. “The gangsters from both groups have been forcing us to join their gangs.”
Attack on Shahid Rehman
Early Sunday morning, gunshots could be heard in the area. Reports also surfaced that members of Uzair Baloch’s group also attacked the house of Shahid Rehman alias Shahid MCB, chairperson of the Karachi City Alliance, and Sikander Sikku.
Published in The Express Tribune, November 4th,2013.
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