By ABDULLAH 
In a tragic story of violence that has shocked Punjab, two brothers were brutally killed after a petty dispute of just Rs. 30 turned deadly at a fruit stall in Lahore’s Raiwind area.
The victims, Rashid (28) and Wajid (24), residents of Ratti Pindi village in Kot Radha Kishan, were returning home after delivering milk on August 21 when they stopped to buy bananas. What began as a simple purchase ended in tragedy, exposing the dark side of intolerance, mob mentality, and lack of social responsibility in Pakistan.
The total fruit bill was Rs. 130, but the brothers only had Rs. 100 and a Rs. 5,000 note. The vendor, Owais, refused to provide change or deduct Rs. 30 worth of bananas.
When Rashid suggested reducing the quantity, an argument broke out. Owais called his brother Taimur and several young men playing cricket nearby. The group violently assaulted the brothers with sticks and cricket bats, leaving them critically injured.
- Wajid died on the spot.
- Rashid succumbed to his injuries later in the hospital.
Their father, Saeed Iqbal, expressed unbearable grief:
“My sons were killed over just Rs. 30 – the life of one was valued at Rs. 15. No one kills even animals the way they killed my sons. Hundreds stood by recording videos instead of helping.”
He revealed that Wajid was a promising cricketer, nicknamed “Little Maxwell” for his batting style similar to Australian star Glenn Maxwell. Wajid often earned Rs. 10,000–15,000 from local tournaments. Rashid, the elder brother, was a father of four children.
Following the complaint by Saeed Iqbal, an FIR was registered at Raiwind City Police Station. Authorities confirmed that both Owais and Taimur were arrested, while efforts continue to identify and arrest their accomplices.
This case has once again raised concerns about mob justice, delayed law enforcement, and the lack of social intervention in Pakistan.
Videos of the incident circulated on TikTok, Facebook, and X (Twitter), sparking nationwide anger. Many users questioned why bystanders preferred filming instead of intervening.
Some common reactions included:
- “This isn’t just murder; it’s the death of humanity.”
- “Two lives lost over Rs. 30, while people stood with cameras in their hands.”
- “Pakistan needs stricter punishment for mob killings.”
The incident has reignited the debate about societal violence, lack of tolerance, and how trivial disputes escalate into life-threatening tragedies.
- Reflection of Intolerance – A minor disagreement turned into a deadly assault, showing the fragile state of tolerance in daily interactions.
- Failure of Bystanders – Dozens of people recorded videos but didn’t step in to save lives.
- Law and Order Concerns – Frequent mob killings in Pakistan highlight deep gaps in legal enforcement and community responsibility.
- Impact on Families – Two families destroyed; Rashid’s four children are left without a father.
- Civic Education: People need to be taught conflict resolution and empathy from schools onward.
- Stronger Punishments: Mob killers must face speedy trials to deter future violence.
- Community Responsibility: Citizens must prioritize helping victims over viral videos.
- Economic Frustration: Many disputes stem from financial pressure; authorities must address inflation and poverty.
Q1: Where did the incident take place?
The incident happened in Raiwind, Lahore, Punjab.
Q2: What was the cause of the fight?
A dispute over Rs. 30 worth of bananas after the seller refused to provide change or reduce the quantity.
Q3: Who were the victims?
Rashid (28), a father of four, and Wajid (24), a talented cricketer nicknamed “Little Maxwell.”
Q4: Have the culprits been arrested?
Yes, the main accused Owais and Taimur have been arrested. Police are tracing others involved.
Q5: Why is this case important?
It highlights the dangers of mob violence, societal intolerance, and the failure of bystanders to act responsibly.
The tragic murder of Rashid and Wajid over a mere Rs. 30 is a grim reminder of how fragile human life has become in the face of anger and mob mentality. Beyond the legal process, this case forces us to ask: What kind of society are we building when human lives are cheaper than fruit?
Until Pakistan addresses intolerance, civic apathy, and weak law enforcement, such heartbreaking incidents will continue to haunt the nation.