In a deeply disturbing incident highlighting the vulnerabilities of young social media users, a 16-year-old boy in Sahiwal was allegedly gang-raped after being lured by a false promise of internet fame.
The victim, a teenager living with his widowed mother, was an active user of the video-sharing platform TikTok. According to reports, the boy was contacted approximately a month ago by an individual who claimed he could help elevate the teen to “TikTok star” status. This initial contact led to ongoing communication and eventually a face-to-face meeting.
The initial rendezvous took place at the Old Sabzi Mandi area in Sahiwal. From there, the suspect allegedly transported the teenager to a residence located in Chak 90/9-L for further “discussions” regarding his social media career.
Upon arriving at the house, the situation escalated violently. The primary suspect, aided by an accomplice, allegedly held the boy at gunpoint and forced him to consume an intoxicating substance via a shisha pipe.
As the teenager became disoriented, two additional suspects reportedly arrived at the location. The attackers then confiscated the boy’s mobile phone and administered further intoxicants by mixing drugs into a soft drink. The victim reported that while incapacitated, he was subjected to a gang-rape by all four men. The suspects subsequently fled the scene, leaving the teenager unconscious.
After regaining consciousness, the traumatized boy managed to recount the harrowing ordeal to his mother. The family immediately sought help from local law enforcement.
The Ghala Mandi Police have taken action, registering a First Information Report (FIR) against the four alleged attackers. The suspects, all identified as residents of Sahiwal city, are facing charges under Section 376(iii) and Section 176A of the Pakistan Penal Code (PPC).
This tragic event in Sahiwal serves as a grim warning about the dangers of online exploitation, particularly concerning minors who are eager to build followings on platforms like TikTok. It underscores the urgent need for heightened awareness and parental supervision regarding online interactions and promises made by strangers on the internet.