Protesters Set Balakot Police Station Ablaze After TikToker’s Death

Protests erupted in Balakot on Monday after a local TikToker, Mohammad Shahid alias Mahandri, was allegedly shot and killed by a police constable in the Boli area. The incident reportedly took place after Iftari, when Shahid received gunshot wounds. Locals transported him to a nearby health facility, where he later succumbed to his injuries.

Following news of his death, a large group of residents gathered, expressing anger over the incident. Protesters claimed that the fatal shots were fired by a police constable identified as Mohammad Shahid. According to reports, the constable fled the scene after the shooting.

In response, demonstrators blocked the Mansehra-Naran-Jalkhad (MNJ) Road and surrounded the Balakot police station. The situation escalated as protesters set fire to both the police station and a patrolling vehicle. The crowd also raised slogans against the Mansehra police, voicing frustration over what they described as a second such incident in two weeks involving alleged police shootings of citizens.

Protesters stated that they would not reopen the MNJ Road until the policeman involved was apprehended. The unrest resulted in significant disruption to traffic and heightened tensions in the area.

Authorities have not released an official statement regarding the incident or the subsequent protests as of the time of reporting. The situation remains tense, with local residents demanding accountability and action against those responsible.