The name Rehman Dakait has again come into public discussion after the release of the film Dhurandhar. The movie has sparked curiosity because it is inspired by real events and real people from Lyari, Karachi. Among them, Rehman Dakait stands out as one of the most feared and talked-about figures. His life story is disturbing, complex, and deeply linked to crime, power, and politics.
This article explains who Rehman Dakait was in real life, how he rose to power at a young age, and how his story ended.
Who Was Rehman Dakait in Real Life?
Rehman Dakait’s real name was Sardar Abdul Rehman Baloch. He was born in 1975 in Lyari, one of Karachi’s oldest and most crime-affected areas. Crime was not new to his family. His father and uncle were reportedly involved in drug smuggling for many years.
After his father’s death, Rehman entered the world of crime at a very young age. What shocked many people later was that, in 1995, Rehman killed his own mother. Police records suggest he claimed she was a police informer. However, many reports say the real reason was personal and linked to gang rivalry. This dark incident marked a turning point in his life.
How Rehman Dakait Became the ‘King of Lyari’
Rehman Dakait’s rise was fast and violent. By his teenage years, he was already involved in serious crimes like stabbing, drug dealing, and gun violence. By the time he was in his early twenties, he had built a powerful gang network in Lyari.
He controlled extortion, drug routes, and local dominance through fear. Several gang wars took place under his leadership, making Lyari a dangerous zone. Despite multiple arrests, Rehman managed to escape custody and continued expanding his influence.
At the same time, he lived a lavish personal life. Reports say he married three times, had many children, and owned expensive properties.
Feared Criminal or Protector of the Poor?
Interestingly, Rehman Dakait had two faces. While many feared him, some locals saw him as a protector. He helped people financially, settled disputes, and supported families in need. This created an image of a “Robin Hood” figure among sections of the community.
This dual image helped him gain loyalty and silence in areas where police influence was weak.
Connection Between Crime and Politics in Lyari
Lyari has long been a political stronghold. Rehman Dakait’s power grew alongside local politics. He was often linked to political activities, though official parties denied direct connections.
In 2008, he formed the People’s Aman Committee (PAC), which acted both as a community group and a criminal organisation. This move gave him more control and legitimacy at the local level. The film Dhurandhar highlights this dangerous mix of politics and crime very clearly.
There were also claims that Rehman supported Baloch nationalist causes, which further strengthened his identity among certain groups.
Gang Wars and Police Pressure
Rehman Dakait’s life was a constant battle between rival gangs and the police. His cousin Uzair Baloch was his closest ally. Together, they fought rival gang leaders for control over Lyari.
On the other side, the police launched strong operations to stop him. Special task forces were formed, and several encounters took place. The pressure kept increasing as Rehman’s influence spread.
How Did Rehman Dakait Die?
In real life, Rehman Dakait was killed in a police encounter in 2009. Reports say he was tracked through intelligence inputs and stopped while travelling with fake documents. He died at the encounter spot.
The film Dhurandhar shows a more dramatic version of his end, with betrayal and emotional scenes. However, in reality, his death was sudden and violent.
What Happened After His Death?
After Rehman Dakait’s death, his cousin Uzair Baloch took control of the gang. Violence in Lyari continued for years. Rehman’s funeral reportedly saw a massive crowd, showing how deeply his presence was felt in the area.
His family later claimed the encounter was fake and approached the court, but the matter remained unresolved.
Conclusion
Rehman Dakait’s life is a disturbing example of how crime, poverty, power, and politics can mix dangerously. He rose from the streets to become a feared gang leader at a very young age. While some saw him as a protector, his actions caused immense violence and loss.
The renewed interest through Dhurandhar reminds us that such stories are not just cinema—they reflect harsh realities that still affect many communities today.
FAQs
Who was Rehman Dakait?
Rehman Dakait was a notorious gang leader from Lyari, Karachi, involved in drugs, extortion, and violent crimes.
Did Rehman Dakait really kill his mother?
Yes, according to police records, he killed his mother in 1995, though the exact motive remains debated.
Is Dhurandhar based on Rehman Dakait’s life?
The film is inspired by real events and characters, but it includes fictional elements and dramatization.
How did Rehman Dakait die?
He was killed in a police encounter in 2009 during an operation against his gang.