Five Boxers Missing After Glasgow Commonwealth Games

Five boxers have disappeared after competing in the Commonwealth Games in Glasgow, failing to return home with their national teams.

Police Scotland confirmed it received reports of multiple athletes unaccounted for in the aftermath of the Games, which concluded Sunday. The missing competitors include four members of Uganda's boxing squad — Nuhu Batte, Angel Katushabe, Ibrahim Kemis and Emily Nakalema — as well as Pakistani boxer Qudratullah, according to local media in both countries.

Boxers Reportedly Seeking Asylum in Scotland

NBS Sport reported that one of the missing Ugandan fighters told the outlet the group intended to claim asylum and continue their boxing careers in Scotland, citing better training facilities and opportunities than their home country offers. The boxer appealed to Ugandans for understanding and asked not to be judged for the decision, per the report.

Pakistan Today reported Qudratullah was not found in his room when officials searched for him before the team's departure flight. A Police Scotland spokesperson said inquiries are ongoing to assess the circumstances, with early engagement taking place with the Home Office.

The pattern echoes the 2014 Commonwealth Games, also held in Glasgow, when dozens of athletes disappeared after competition ended. Two Ugandan rugby players who vanished from that event surfaced playing for a Cardiff club. Glasgow 2026 spokeswoman Sophie Ashcroft said organisers continue working with Police Scotland, Border Force and UK Visas and Immigration to ensure a safe conclusion to the Games. Any asylum claims will be considered on individual merits against available evidence.

Source: bbc.co.uk