Islamabad Court Sentences Man to Death in TikTok Star Sana Yousaf Murder Case

An Islamabad court has sentenced a man to death for the murder of teenage social media influencer Sana Yousaf, in a case that sparked widespread outrage across Pakistan and renewed debate over women’s safety and online harassment.

Additional District and Sessions Judge Muhammad Afzal Majoka handed the death sentence to 23-year-old Umar Hayat after finding him guilty of killing the 17-year-old influencer at her Islamabad home in June 2025.

According to investigators, the case stemmed from what police described as a one-sided obsession. Hayat was arrested within 20 hours of the killing after authorities said he became fixated on Sana through social media interactions and reacted violently after repeated rejection.

Court documents stated that the accused travelled from Punjab’s Jaranwala city to Islamabad carrying a firearm before forcing his way into Sana’s residence and shooting her in front of family members.

The court also ordered the convict to pay PKR2.5 million in compensation to the victim’s family. Additional prison terms and fines were imposed under separate charges, including robbery and defamation.

During the trial, Hayat reportedly retracted an earlier confession and claimed he had been falsely implicated due to public pressure surrounding the case. Prosecutors, however, argued that evidence and statements clearly established motive and planning.

Sana Yousaf, who had over one million followers across social media platforms, was widely known for her fashion, skincare and lifestyle content. Her killing triggered strong public reaction and calls for stricter protections for women, especially online creators and influencers.

Following the verdict, Sana’s family welcomed the ruling, saying it represented justice not only for their daughter but for women across the country.