'Mystery' national team vanishes without a trace: How could this happen? "This isn't the first time..."

*This content was translated by AI.

A mystery disappearance case occurred. After the 2026 Glasgow Commonwealth Games concluded, several participating athletes vanished en masse, plunging the host city into shock and confusion.

British media outlet 'BBC' reported on the 5th (Korean time) that "several athletes who participated in the recently concluded Glasgow Commonwealth Games did not return home with their respective national teams but disappeared without a trace in the local area."

The Scotland National Police Agency stated it received numerous reports of athletes whose whereabouts became unclear immediately after the event ended. According to 'BBC', a police official announced, "We are currently investigating the circumstances surrounding the missing athletes and have initiated early consultations with the UK Home Office."

Synthesizing local Ugandan and international media reports, this disappearance incident involved four athletes from the Uganda Bok Sing (CEO) team: Nuhu Bate, Angel Katushabe, Ibrahim Kemis, and Emily Nakalema. They vanished without boarding their return flight.

Sports specialty outlet 'NBS Sports' reported contacting one of the missing Ugandan athletes, who stated, "These athletes plan to seek asylum in Scotland for superior training environments and opportunities compared to their home country and continue their athletic careers." The athlete reportedly pleaded, "We ask for your understanding. Please do not condemn our decision."

Pakistani media outlet 'Pakistan Today' also reported that their national boxer Kudratulla disappeared without joining the team's scheduled return flight. When officials searched the athletes' village accommodations, his room was already empty.

This is not the first time athletes have vanished en masse at the Commonwealth Games. During the 2014 Glasgow Games, two Ugandan rugby players suddenly disappeared after the event concluded and were later discovered playing for a small team in Cardiff. Additionally, Cameroon weightlifter Cyril Chatet II also vanished immediately after that tournament, successfully sought asylum, and returned to win a silver medal at this 2026 edition.

Glasgow 2026 spokesperson Sophie Ashcroft stated, "Over the past two weeks, we welcomed athlete delegations from over 74 countries totaling more than 3,000 individuals." She added, "We are working closely with Scottish police, border security, and UK visa authorities to ensure a safe conclusion as athletes depart."

The host city of Glasgow and the UK local authorities remain visibly unsettled by this recurring mass disappearance and asylum-seeking exodus of athletes, following similar incidents in previous editions.

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*This content was translated by AI.