Seventeen-year-old TikTok personality Sana Yousaf was tragically gunned down inside her home in Islamabad, reportedly by a man whose advances she had repeatedly rejected. The suspect, identified as 22-year-old Umar Hayat, was arrested less than a day after the fatal shooting.
According to investigators, Hayat entered Yousaf’s residence on June 2 and shot her twice at close range before fleeing the scene with her mobile phone. Authorities believe the motive was tied to her repeated refusal to engage with him, despite ongoing attempts to contact her.
Yousaf, originally from Chitral, had become a popular voice on social media, known for promoting women’s empowerment and traditional culture. Her online following had surpassed one million, and her final post—a video celebrating her birthday—was uploaded just hours before the attack.
The killing has triggered a national outcry, with activists and citizens demanding swift justice and stronger protections for women in public life. Calls for reform have echoed across social platforms and public demonstrations, as advocates stress the growing dangers faced by female influencers.
Hayat remains in custody, and charges are expected as authorities continue their investigation. The incident has reignited debate over digital harassment, gender-based violence, and the urgent need for systemic change to protect women both online and offline.