Summary
- The reported arrest comes days after a deadly stampede at Faraz Cricket Ground on Daska Road in Sialkot, where a large crowd had gathered for wedding celebrations and a promotional prize draw organised by the social media personality’s team.
- The stampede occurred after a large number of people arrived at the venue following social media promotions advertising a car, 50 motorcycles and several other prizes.
- Authorities also seized the car and 50 motorcycles that had been advertised as prizes for the promotional event.
ISLAMABAD: Pakistani TikToker Ansar, popularly known as Mr Patlu, has reportedly been arrested during a police raid in Islamabad’s Gulberg area, according to unofficial sources.
The reported arrest comes days after a deadly stampede at Faraz Cricket Ground on Daska Road in Sialkot, where a large crowd had gathered for wedding celebrations and a promotional prize draw organised by the social media personality’s team.
However, police and other law enforcement authorities have yet to officially confirm Mr Patlu’s arrest. The circumstances surrounding his reported detention also remain unclear.
The stampede occurred after a large number of people arrived at the venue following social media promotions advertising a car, 50 motorcycles and several other prizes. The crowd reportedly surged towards the entrance after an announcement urged attendees to enter the ground simultaneously.
The incident claimed two lives, with the victims identified as Aqeel and Rehan. Rehan reportedly died after being shifted to Lahore for medical treatment.
Police said the event organisers had violated permission conditions and failed to follow necessary safety arrangements. The incident also caused major traffic disruption on the Daska-Sialkot road, while reports of property damage emerged during the chaos.
Following the tragedy, police registered a case at Motra Police Station against nine named suspects and around 40 to 45 unidentified security guards. Those nominated included Mr Patlu, his brother Kashif Bashir, venue owner Shahid Javed and several other individuals allegedly linked to the event.
The FIR reportedly includes charges under several provisions of the Pakistan Penal Code, including Sections 322, 188, 148, 149, 431, 440 and 109, along with Section 16 of the Maintenance of Public Order Ordinance.
Authorities also seized the car and 50 motorcycles that had been advertised as prizes for the promotional event.
Meanwhile, Mr Patlu previously rejected allegations of responsibility for the tragedy in a video statement. He claimed that he was not present at the venue when the stampede took place.
The reported arrest has yet to receive official confirmation, while further details about the police action are awaited.
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