A Karachi football team faced a frightening robbery while travelling to Quetta in Balochistan. The Karachi District West team was heading to the Chief Minister’s Gold Cup tournament when armed men stopped their bus. The incident took place between Mastung and Sariab on the highway. Around a dozen armed men reportedly intercepted the vehicle. They forced the passengers to get off the bus before taking their belongings.
Also Read : Man Who Died in 2022 Kept Frozen at Mumbai Clinic for Four Years, Reports Say
Armed Men Stop Team Bus and Steal Valuables
The attackers reportedly collected mobile phones, cash and other valuables from the players and staff. Team manager Zulfiqar Ali Bhutto described the incident and said the armed men threatened the passengers. Some passengers were also reportedly struck during the robbery. The team members reached Quetta after the incident with little or no money. The robbery left the players shaken as they continued their journey.
After reaching Quetta, the team informed the Balochistan sports minister about the incident. The robbery had left the players without money for their immediate expenses. The minister responded by arranging daily allowances for the affected team members. The assistance helped the players manage their basic needs after the incident. Authorities were informed about the robbery following the team’s arrival.
Also Read : Vimal Elaichi Ad Row: SRK, Ajay Devgn and Tiger Shroff React to FDA Notice
Team Travels Despite Security Warnings
Sindh Football Association secretary Muhammad Azam said officials had warned teams about travelling to Quetta by road. According to him, the association had decided not to send its own Sindh team because of security concerns. Officials also advised Karachi clubs to avoid travelling by bus or train. However, the Karachi District West team proceeded with its journey. Azam said the incident highlighted the concerns behind those earlier warnings.
Other football associations also reportedly avoided sending teams to the tournament. Punjab and Khyber Pakhtunkhwa associations did not send their teams, according to Azam. The security situation on roads in parts of Balochistan remains a concern for travellers. The Mastung-Quetta highway has reportedly witnessed incidents involving armed groups. A few days earlier, two local cricketers were also reportedly abducted from Dera Bugti.
Also Read :Man Who Died in 2022 Kept Frozen at Mumbai Clinic for Four Years, Reports Say