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Conflicting reports on death of young Afghan footballer
On Monday, multiple videos circulating on social media showed people clinging to the sides of U.S. Air Force C-17s during evacuations out of Kabul. Some videos even showed those same individuals losing their grip and plummeting to the ground mid-flight.
While the gruesome videos seem to depict multiple deaths, the U.S. Air Force Office of Special Investigation is reviewing the situation and has not confirmed the total amount yet.
Zaki Anwari
One of the individuals who died was identified as 19-year-old Zaki Anwari. It is unknown if he fell to his death, or if he was the one whose remains were found in the C-17’s wheel well. The death of Anwari was confirmed by the General Directorate of Physical Education and Sports of Afghanistan, as reported by Ariana News earlier today.
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Conflicting stories
Conflicting reports about the incident have been making the rounds online. Some claim that Anwari was one of the few who fell from the plane mid-flight, others that say he was the individual whose remains were found in the wheel well of the plane.
Despite the conflicting information, the young man’s death is a tragedy.
Anwari was a promising young football player who played for the Afghan national youth football team. He was called on to join the national team a few years ago, when he was only sixteen.
Born after the Taliban was ousted from power in 2001, Anwari never experienced their cruelty firsthand. Regardless of his personal experiences, he knew that he had to get away from the rapidly deteriorating situation, in any possible way.
The last Facebook post Anwari wrote stated, “You’re the painter of your life. Don’t give the paintbrush to anyone else!” While Anwari certainly didn’t decide on his fate, he did choose to be in control of the circumstances of his own life.
The reports coming out of Afghanistan have been heartbreaking to say the least, but there are those who remain in the country who deserve our utmost admiration and attention for their willingness to risk their lives for their freedom.
Also Read: NATO Secretary General places blame on Afghan leaders for nation’s fall
