Islamabad– Popular Pakistani social media influencer Sana Yousuf was shot dead at her home in Islamabad by a male relative in a suspected case of honor killing, sparking widespread outrage and renewed scrutiny of gender-based violence in Pakistan.
According to local reports, the 20-something content creator—originally from Upper Chitral—was gunned down at close range by a visiting relative who fled the scene immediately after the attack.
Police sources told Samaa TV that the man briefly spoke with Sana outside her home before following her inside and opening fire. “The suspect entered the residence, fired multiple rounds, and escaped,” said a police official. Sana was hit by two bullets and died on the spot.
Authorities have launched a manhunt to apprehend the suspect and are exploring all possible motives, including honor killing—an issue deeply rooted in parts of Pakistani society, where women often face violence for asserting independence or maintaining a public presence.
Sana Yousuf had amassed more than 400,000 followers across her social media platforms, gaining recognition for her lifestyle content, promotion of Chitrali culture, and outspoken advocacy for women’s education and rights. Her motivational videos frequently inspired young Pakistanis, particularly girls, and she was widely regarded as a rising digital voice in the country.
The news of her death has triggered a wave of condemnation online. Hashtags like #JusticeForSanaYousuf have trended on platforms such as Instagram and X (formerly Twitter), with influencers, activists, and everyday users demanding swift justice.
Sana was the daughter of a local social activist and often used her platform to highlight issues affecting girls and women in conservative regions like Chitral. Her murder has drawn comparisons to a case earlier this year in which a father killed his teenage daughter over her presence on TikTok. That case involved a family that had recently moved back to Pakistan from the United States; the father initially blamed unidentified attackers before ultimately confessing.
Sana’s killing has again underscored the grave dangers faced by women in Pakistan who challenge traditional norms or seek visibility online. As the outrage continues, calls are growing for urgent legal reforms and tougher action against so-called “honor” crimes—violence that continues to claim lives under the guise of family reputation. (Source: IANS)
