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A heartbreaking incident has unfolded in Pakistan, where a promising young TikTok creator was tragically murdered just days after celebrating her 17th birthday. The victim, Sana Yousaf, was shot in her home in Islamabad on June 2, 2025, by 22-year-old Umar Hayat, who has since confessed to the crime.
A Disturbing Encounter
Sana Yousaf, a rising social media influencer with over 800,000 followers, was reportedly targeted after she rejected multiple advances from Hayat. The two had known each other for approximately a year, and it is believed that Hayat traveled to Islamabad to wish her a happy birthday on May 28. However, when he arrived at her home on June 2, Yousaf did not come out to meet him.
In a fit of rage, Hayat broke into her residence, leading to a confrontation that escalated into violence. He shot Yousaf twice in the chest before fleeing the scene, threatening her aunt and stealing her phone in an apparent attempt to destroy evidence.
Swift Justice
Authorities acted quickly following the murder, launching a manhunt that utilized footage from 113 CCTV cameras across the city. Within 20 hours, police apprehended Hayat and recovered the murder weapon along with Yousaf’s stolen phone. Tragically, Yousaf succumbed to her injuries before reaching the hospital.
Public Outcry and Reflection
The murder of Sana Yousaf has ignited widespread outrage and discussions about the pervasive violence against women in Pakistan. Many have expressed their condolences, while her TikTok account has gained thousands of followers posthumously, reflecting the impact she had on her audience. Her final post featured a montage celebrating her birthday with friends, a stark contrast to the violence that would soon follow.
However, the incident has also drawn criticism from some quarters, with certain netizens blaming Yousaf for her influencer lifestyle. Digital rights activists have condemned these reactions, emphasizing the need for societal change and the importance of supporting victims rather than shaming them.
A Call for Change
This tragic event highlights the urgent need for reforms to protect women in Pakistan from violence and harassment, particularly in cases where rejection leads to fatal consequences. As the nation grapples with this heartbreaking loss, many hope that Sana Yousaf’s story will serve as a catalyst for change, prompting authorities and society to take a stand against gender-based violence.
Sana Yousaf has been laid to rest in her hometown of Chitral, leaving behind a legacy that continues to resonate with her followers and advocates for women’s rights.