Rehman Dakait: The Notorious Figure Born in a Pakistani Town
The story of Rehman Dakait, a notorious figure from Lyari, Karachi, sheds light on a life intertwined with crime and politics. His rise and downfall reflect the sociopolitical landscape of Pakistan’s troubled neighborhoods.
Who Was Rehman Dakait?
Born in 1980 to Dad Muhammad, a drug smuggler, and Khadija Bibi, Rehman, originally named Sardar Abdul Rehman Baloch, began his criminal career at a young age. By the time he was just thirteen, he reportedly committed his first violent act. Two years afterward, he was accused of the tragic slaying of his mother, an act that cemented his notorious reputation.
The Criminal Empire of Rehman Dakait
Rehman’s criminal activities escalated over the years. By his early twenties, he was leading a gang that engaged in various illegal enterprises, including:
- Drug smuggling
- Kidnapping
- Extortion
- Illegal arms trading
The atmosphere in Lyari was tense, as Rehman battled rival gangs, most notably the one led by Arshad Pappu. For nearly a decade, gang wars plagued the community, creating an environment of fear and violence.
The Social Landscape of Lyari
Lyari is one of the most densely populated regions in Karachi, home to around 900,000 people as of the 2023 census. The town’s history dates back to the 1700s, when it was settled by Sindhi fishermen and Baloch nomads. Unfortunately, neglect in urban planning led to widespread poverty and the emergence of organized crime.
Political Aspirations and Influence
Rehman Dakait didn’t confine himself to criminal activities; he aimed for political power. His connections to the Pakistan Peoples Party (PPP) became apparent as he interacted with prominent figures, including former Home Minister Zulfiqar Mirza and Benazir Bhutto. This political contact allowed him to reinforce his grip on Lyari amidst widespread administrative failures.
A PPP leader remarked, “Political personalities ignored Lyari. As a result, people like Rehman Dakait filled that gap.” Rehman took advantage of the area’s instability, employing impoverished youth to reinforce his dominance, offering them wages and arms to patrol local territories.
The Transformation to Sardar Abdul Rehman Baloch
In 2008, seeking to legitimize his power, Rehman rebranded himself as Sardar Abdul Rehman Baloch. He initiated the People’s Aman Committee, which appeared to align with the PPP’s ideologies. The group aimed to promote peace in a fractured community, attempting to mend ties with rival factions.
The Mysterious Encounter and Death
Tragically, Rehman’s life came to an abrupt end in August 2009 during a police encounter. There are conflicting narratives surrounding his death. Some suggest police acted out of necessity to eliminate his rising political ambitions. Others believe it was related to arms dealings with groups like the Balochistan Liberation Army.
Witnesses and associates expressed suspicions regarding the incident, noting the circumstances of his fatal shooting. The autopsy revealed he was shot at close range, raising questions about the authenticity of the encounter narrative.
The Legacy of Rehman Dakait
Rehman Dakait’s life, though cut short at 29, has left an indelible mark on the people of Lyari. His story continues to resonate within the community and has inspired portrayals in film, illustrating the complex intersection of crime, poverty, and politics in Pakistan.
As society grapples with these issues, the legacy of figures like Rehman Dakait serves as a reminder of the persistent challenges facing urban regions like Lyari.
