Investigators believe the murder was premeditated
A Pakistani man has confessed to murdering his teenage daughter in Quetta after objecting to her TikTok videos, police confirmed.
The tragic incident has sparked renewed debates over honour killings and the role of social media in conservative societies.
The suspect, Anwar ul-Haq, initially reported that unidentified gunmen had killed his 15-year-old daughter, Hira.
However, after the police’s investigation, he admitted to shooting her himself.
According to law enforcement officials, Anwar recently returned to Pakistan with his daughter after living in the United States for 25 years.
He was reportedly enraged over his daughter’s presence on TikTok.
Authorities revealed that Anwar had warned Hira multiple times to stop making social media videos, but she refused to comply.
Investigators believe the murder was premeditated, as Anwar conspired with his brother-in-law, Tayyab Ali, to carry out the killing.
Police have arrested both men, who later confessed to the crime.
Senior police officer Zohaib Mohsin stated that the family disapproved of Hira’s clothing, social activities and online presence.
He confirmed that authorities are investigating the case as a potential honour killing.
The crime was committed just days after Anwar and his US-born daughter returned to Pakistan.
Meanwhile, his wife and two other daughters remain in the United States.
Police are continuing their investigation, including unlocking Hira’s phone to review her social media activity.
Authorities have transferred the case to the Serious Crime Investigation Wing to ensure a thorough probe.
Pakistan has had numerous honour killings linked to social media in recent years.
According to the Human Rights Commission of Pakistan, more than 1,000 women are murdered every year by family members for allegedly violating conservative norms.
This includes social media activity, personal choices, or relationships.
TikTok, which has over 54 million users in Pakistan, has faced multiple bans due to content deemed inappropriate by authorities.
The platform has also come under fire for allegedly promoting behaviours that clash with traditional values.
Hira’s murder has reignited discussions about honour-based violence and the dangers faced by women who defy societal expectations.
What is even more concerning is that the Pakistani public thinks it is the girl’s fault, a common occurrence.
Many social media users highlighted various points including the girl’s dressing style, content and disobedience to her parents.
A user said: “A father works hard for his family throughout life, giving time and everything to them. In the end, what did he gain?
“A dancing girl on TikTok showing herself to the people.”
Another wrote: “Illiterate father’s illiterate daughter. She probably had the wrong dressing and male friends.”
Activists are calling for stricter enforcement of laws against honour killings, as well as greater efforts to protect women from family violence.
Loading ...