Karachi: Pakistan's commercial capital witnessed another high-profile shooting on Thursday evening after Zubair Baloch, the brother of jailed gangster Uzair Baloch, was critically injured in a suspected targeted attack in Karachi's Lyari area. Local reports state that Zubair was shot many times by unidentified assailants who opened fire on him when he was sitting outside his home. He was rushed to a nearby hospital, where doctors are treating him in critical condition. Security agencies have launched an investigation to determine the motive behind the attack.
Gunmen Open Fire Outside His Home
The incident reportedly took place in Singu Lane of Karachi's Lyari neighbourhood, an area historically associated with gang violence. Witnesses told police that two masked men arrived on a motorcycle, stopped near Zubair Baloch's residence and fired several rounds before speeding away. Residents immediately alerted emergency services, and the injured man was shifted to hospital for urgent medical treatment. Police officials sealed the crime scene shortly after the shooting and collected forensic evidence, including spent bullet casings. In an attempt to identify the attackers and track their escape path, CCTV video from surrounding streets is also being reviewed.
Investigation Underway
Authorities believe the shooting appears to be a targeted attack, although investigators have not ruled out other possibilities. Senior police officials said multiple angles are being examined, including personal rivalry, criminal disputes and possible links to older gang conflicts that once dominated the Lyari neighbourhood. No group has claimed responsibility for the attack so far, and officials have urged the public to avoid speculation until the investigation reaches a conclusion. Additional police personnel have been deployed in the area as a precautionary measure.
Who Is Uzair Baloch?
Zubair Baloch is the brother of Uzair Baloch, one of Pakistan's most notorious alleged gang leaders. Uzair rose to prominence during the years when Lyari was considered the country's most violent gang stronghold. He has faced numerous charges, including murder, extortion, kidnapping and organised crime. His name was associated for years with the People's Amn Committee (PAC), a contentious group that had considerable power in Lyari prior to extensive security operations undermining local criminal networks. Uzair Baloch is currently imprisoned and has faced multiple legal proceedings in Pakistan.
Lyari's Long History of Gang Violence
Once known for its vibrant football culture and close-knit communities, Lyari gradually became synonymous with gang warfare, political rivalries and organised crime during the 1990s and 2000s. Rival armed groups frequently clashed for territorial control, resulting in prolonged violence and numerous casualties. Pakistan's security forces later launched extensive operations aimed at dismantling criminal syndicates in the neighbourhood. Although those operations significantly reduced gang activity, occasional incidents continue to raise concerns that remnants of old rivalries still exist. The latest attack on Zubair Baloch has once again drawn attention to Lyari's troubled past and the enduring influence of criminal networks in parts of Karachi.
Renewed Attention After 'Dhurandhar'
The Baloch family has recently returned to public attention following the release of the film "Dhurandhar," which reportedly draws inspiration from the rise of organised crime and gang rivalries associated with Lyari. While the film is a fictional cinematic adaptation rather than a documentary, it renewed public interest in the history surrounding Uzair Baloch and the criminal landscape of Karachi. The shooting has further intensified discussions on social media, with many drawing parallels between the film's storyline and real-life developments. However, authorities have not linked the incident to any events portrayed in the movie.
Security Tightened Across the Area
Following the attack, law enforcement agencies increased security in Lyari and nearby localities to prevent any retaliatory violence. Patrols have been intensified, while intelligence officials are gathering information about possible suspects and their movements before the shooting. Police have appealed to residents to cooperate with investigators and share any information that could help identify the gunmen. Officials remain hopeful that CCTV footage and forensic analysis will provide crucial leads.
Current Condition
Hospital sources say Zubair Baloch remains in critical condition, with doctors closely monitoring his injuries. His survival will largely depend on his response to treatment over the coming hours. Meanwhile, Karachi police continue their investigation, stressing that no conclusions will be drawn until all evidence has been examined. The incident has once again highlighted the security challenges that continue to confront Pakistan's largest city, even years after major crackdowns on organised crime.
