Family of 17-year-old Abdul Basit demands justice after fatal shooting during 'land-grab clash'

The family of 17-year-old Abdul Basit has appealed for justice after the teenager was killed during a shooting incident allegedly linked to a property dispute in Karachi, claiming that no meaningful action has been taken against those responsible despite repeated approaches to law enforcement authorities.

Speaking to Dialogue Pakistan, Basit’s father recalled the events of 14 May, describing scenes of panic and indiscriminate gunfire.

“On the night of 14 May, at around 10:30pm, my cousin informed us that armed individuals had arrived at our building and were attempting to seize the property,” he said.

According to the family, several women were allegedly forced out of their homes during the incident, prompting relatives to gather at the property.

“When we reached the site, we saw armed men carrying weapons. Moments later, heavy firing broke out. The shooting was so intense that there was complete chaos. It felt as though hundreds of rounds had been fired,” he said.

Basid’s father said his son was present at the scene when a bullet struck him in the chest.

“Amid the firing, my son Abdul Basit was hit by a bullet. A few hours later, we were informed that he had succumbed to his injuries. He died before we could do anything to save him,” he said.

Questioning the authorities’ response, the grieving father said the family had repeatedly contacted police and visited the local station in the aftermath of the incident.

“We informed the authorities and sought help, but there was no effective response. The property is located only a short distance from the police station, yet there was no intervention when it was needed,” he alleged.

He warned that similar incidents could affect other families if those responsible were not brought to justice.

“Today it has happened to us. Tomorrow it could happen to someone else,” he said.

Describing his son, Basit's father said the teenager had recently completed his matriculation examinations and was preparing to apply for college admission.

“He was a kind, respectful and caring child. He encouraged us to pray and was devoted to his family, particularly his mother,” he said.

Basit’s mother also appealed to authorities to ensure justice for her son.

“No mother should have to endure this pain. My son was taken from us, and those responsible must be held accountable,” she said.

She expressed frustration over what she described as a lack of progress in the case, saying the family had spent weeks seeking answers.

“We have gone from one office to another, but we are still waiting for justice. Twenty-six days have passed, yet no one has been held accountable,” she said.

The family has urged the Inspector General of Police Sindh and other relevant authorities to expedite the investigation and arrest those allegedly involved in the teenager’s killing.

“We have lost our son before our eyes. This grief will stay with us for the rest of our lives. All we want is justice,” the family said.