ISLAMABAD, Saturday, June 21, 2025 (WNP): Federal Minister for Information and Broadcasting Attaullah Tarar on Saturday declared the murder of social media influencer Sana Yousuf a “test case” for Pakistan’s justice system, vowing that the perpetrator would be held to account with the full force of the law.

In a strong and emotional statement following a condolence visit to the victim’s family in Islamabad, the minister said, “This brutal act has shaken the entire nation. It must become a precedent so that no one dares to commit such a heinous crime again.”

Tarar said Prime Minister Muhammad Shehbaz Sharif and Interior Minister Mohsin Naqvi had taken “serious notice” of the killing and that the federal government was determined to ensure swift and exemplary justice.

The minister announced that a dedicated legal team will be formed to assist with the prosecution, adding that every effort would be made to avoid any procedural flaws that could weaken the case. “We will take this case to its logical conclusion. The accused must face the strictest punishment possible under the law,” he said.

He further stressed the need for legislative reforms to protect women, particularly those active on social media. “We need to provide a safe environment for our daughters to empower them. Legislation is necessary to protect them from online and offline predators,” Tarar emphasized.

Commending the swift response by law enforcement, he noted, “Islamabad Police acted with commendable speed, arresting the suspect within hours of the incident.”

Meanwhile, the main suspect in the murder case, Umar Hayat, was remanded to police custody for four days after being identified by the victim’s mother and aunt during an identification parade. The remand was granted by Judicial Magistrate Muhammad Hafeez, who also ordered a medical examination of the accused and directed police to submit the report by the next hearing.

Prosecution sources revealed that while the police had requested a seven-day remand to recover the suspect’s mobile phone and vehicle, the court allowed only four days. The accused claimed to have already handed over his mobile phone and requested legal counsel, stating that he had no contact with his family.

In a significant development, the Federal Prosecutor’s Office on Tuesday appointed a two-member team to ensure a robust prosecution. The team comprises Deputy District Prosecutor Adnan Ali and legal expert Raja Naveed Kiyani. They will work closely with the investigating officer to gather and review evidence, and help draft a comprehensive charge sheet.

The move underscores the state’s commitment to prosecuting the case with due diligence and transparency, ensuring justice is served without delay or compromise.

Sana Yousuf, a rising TikTok star with a significant following, was found murdered earlier this week in what police have described as a “targeted and deliberate act.” Her killing has sparked public outrage and renewed calls for legal protection for women in the digital space.

Civil society groups and digital rights activists have lauded the government’s resolve but urged follow-through. “We hope this doesn’t end as another symbolic gesture. The system must prove that justice for women is possible in Pakistan,” said a representative from a women’s advocacy group.

As the nation grieves, the coming days will prove critical in determining whether Sana’s case truly sets the precedent the government promises — one that could redefine state response to violence against women in Pakistan.