Pakistani influencer Sana Yousuf shot dead at her residence in Islamabad; honour killing suspected
PTC Web Desk: In a shocking act of violence, young social media influencer Sana Yousuf, known for her vibrant content and advocacy for women’s rights, was tragically shot and killed at her home in Islamabad. The 20-something digital creator from Upper Chitral was reportedly gunned down at close range by a visiting relative, according to Samaa TV.
The suspect, whose identity has not yet been disclosed by the authorities, fled the scene moments after the shooting. The police have launched a manhunt and are exploring various angles behind the murder — including the possibility of an honour killing, a grim and all-too-common occurrence in parts of Pakistan.
Preliminary police investigations revealed that Sana had a brief conversation with the suspect just outside her residence. Moments later, the assailant allegedly entered the house, opened fire, and escaped before help could arrive. Sana was struck by two bullets and died at the scene, said police officials familiar with the investigation.
“We are looking into all possible motives, including family disputes and honour-related violence,” a senior police officer was quoted as saying by local media outlets.
Sana Yousuf had cultivated a strong online presence, amassing over 4,00,000 followers across platforms. Her content blended lifestyle vlogs, cultural insights from Chitral, and compelling messages about girls’ education and empowerment — subjects that remain contentious in conservative pockets of Pakistani society.
News of her death triggered an outpouring of grief and anger across social media. Netizens quickly rallied behind the hashtag #JusticeForSanaYousuf, demanding accountability and swift action against the perpetrator.
Earlier this year, another harrowing incident made headlines when a father in Pakistan shot dead his teenage daughter over her TikTok activity. The family had recently returned from the United States, and the case was initially misreported as a robbery.
- With inputs from agencies
