The Alpine Club of Pakistan (ACP) has confirmed a serious allegation. Pakistani Mountaineers Allegedly Caught Lying About Summiting Major Peaks now casts a shadow over the mountaineering community.
The claim involves climbers Sohaniya Babar and Amina Shigri, who said they reached the top of Spantik Peak (7,027 m). Posters celebrated Babar as the first woman from Sindh to summit Spantik. ACP, however, declared the claim false. Pakistani Mountaineers Allegedly Caught Lying About Summiting Major Peaks ring true based on expert scrutiny.
Photography experts noted that the images they posted lacked typical summit features. The shots showed a flat plateau, not the sharp ridge with Malubiting in the background that genuine summit photos feature.
Spanish climber Mandy Placeres, who reached the peak on August 13, testified to ACP that he passed both women well below the summit. He told the club that Babar turned back near Camp 2 and Shigri stopped at Camp 3
This isn’t the first controversy for Babar. Her previous claims of summiting Khusargang Peak have also raised questions. ACP’s confirmation of false claims has intensified scrutiny.
Climber Muhammad Bilal, a vocal critic, said: “We will not let Pakistan’s reputation be sacrificed at the altar of lies.” His words reflect mounting pressure for accountability
Eventica Travels, associated with the expedition, has distanced itself. However, neither Babar nor Shigri has issued a public apology. ACP has warned of strict consequences, including bans, fines, and penalties for false claims by climbers, operators, or support staff.
Respected climber Shehroze Kashif welcomed ACP’s action. He called it a “turning point” for adventure tourism integrity in Pakistan.
Spantik is considered one of Pakistan’s more accessible 7,000 m peaks. Still, the climb poses serious risks, as highlighted by accidents and fatalities in the past. ACP’s ruling underscores the importance of honesty in mountaineering records.
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