Jawed Mahandri a local TikToker, was shot dead during an iftar gathering in Balakot, Mansehra district, Khyber Pakhtunkhwa on Monday.
According to reports Mahandri was sitting with some friends when the shooting took place. A video of the incident later became viral on social media. The video starts with light-hearted moments as friends can be seen joking with each other and interacting with each other. In the footage two men turn to approach the group. One of them suddenly pulls out his pistol from his trousers and points it toward Mahandri. The weapon malfunctions and Mahandri is hit by a bullet.
He died on the spot. His friends look shocked in the video and can be heard asking if he had truly been shot. The sudden change in events caused fear and it caused confusion. Police have initiated an investigation to ascertain whether the shooting was accidental or not. Initial reports indicate that the accused is a police constable who supposedly thought that the pistol was unloaded while joking.
Authorities said there was a bullet in the chamber that was fatal. Following the incident, there were protests in the streets by residents. Demonstrators stoned the Balakot police station. Protesters also tried to burn down a police vehicle and portions of the station. The protest ended after the arrest by the authorities of the police officer concerned in the case.
Senior Superintendent of Police (SP) Balakot Sabir Khan made commitments to protesters that strict legal action would be taken. Under the law, he promised justice to the victim’s family. Speaker of the Khyber Pakhtunkhwa Assembly Babar Saleem Swati said that he was very sad about the incident. He referred to Mahandri as a loved and friendly individual.
He confirmed the fact that the suspect is in custody and that FIR is being registered. Mahandri was known for his funny social media posts and had a huge following. His death has caused widespread grief and outrage on the internet. Authorities said a full investigation is ongoing in an effort to prove full responsibility.
Read also: Tragic TikTok stunt claims another young life
