ISLAMABAD: The high-profile murder case of teenage social media influencer Sana Yousaf entered a crucial stage after the prime accused, Umar Hayat, denied all charges during court proceedings in Islamabad. The accused rejected his alleged confession and pleaded not guilty before the local court, intensifying public attention on one of Pakistan’s most discussed criminal cases.
The trial officially began under Judge Muhammad Afzal Majoka in Islamabad, where the court formally indicted Umar Hayat on charges of premeditated murder and theft of Sana Yousaf’s mobile phone. Prosecutors claim the suspect stole the phone to destroy evidence related to alleged harassment and stalking.
During the hearing, Umar Hayat stated that all allegations against him were false and baseless. The 22-year-old accused, who is also known as a TikTok content creator from Faisalabad, denied the police claim that he confessed during initial interrogation. Following his plea, the court adjourned the hearing and directed prosecutors to present witnesses and evidence in the upcoming sessions.
According to police investigations, the tragic incident occurred in Islamabad’s G-13/1 sector, where Sana Yousaf was allegedly shot inside her home. Authorities said the accused entered the residence armed with a pistol and opened fire after a brief confrontation. Sana Yousaf reportedly suffered two gunshot wounds to the chest and later died before reaching the hospital.
Law enforcement agencies arrested Umar Hayat shortly after the incident in Faisalabad. Islamabad Police officials described the murder as a cold-blooded crime allegedly motivated by repeated rejection of friendship and romantic advances made by the accused.
The murder of Sana Yousaf sparked nationwide outrage across Pakistan, especially on social media platforms including TikTok and Instagram, where she had more than one million followers. Originally from Upper Chitral, Sana was known for promoting Chitrali culture, girls’ education, and youth awareness through digital content.
Civil rights groups and women’s rights organizations held protests demanding justice for Sana Yousaf and stricter laws against harassment, stalking, and gender-based violence in Pakistan as the case continues to attract national attention.
