Popular TikToker Javed “Mehandri” shot dead in Balakot
A famous TikToker from Mansehra district, Javed, popularly known as “Mehandri,” was shot dead in Balakot shortly before iftar, triggering widespread outrage and violent protests in the area, 24.
According to details, the incident occurred along a riverside in Balakot, where Javed had gathered with friends to break his fast.
During the meetup, he jokingly remarked to a friend who had just arrived.
A video of the gathering, which has since gone viral on social media, shows what appears to be a friendly atmosphere with lighthearted banter among the group.
However, moments later, one of the friends allegedly pulled out a pistol and fired.
جاوید مہانڈری قتل ویڈیو۔۔۔۔
— Farzana Ali (@farzanaalispark) March 3, 2026
بالاکوٹ میں سوشل میڈیا سٹار جاوید مہانڈری کے قتل کی ویڈیو سامنے آ گئی۔ویڈیو میں شاہد نامی پولیس اہلکار کو جاوید مہانڈری کو گولی مارتے دیکھا جا سکتا ہے۔۔۔۔۔۔ pic.twitter.com/2HN6lr9miE
Javed collapsed after being struck by the bullet and was later pronounced dead at a hospital.
Initial reports suggested the suspected shooter is a serving police officer who fled the scene following the incident.
Balakot police believed the suspect may have assumed the weapon was unloaded, but a live round in the chamber proved fatal for Mehandri.
As news of the killing spread, family members and local residents staged strong protests against the police.
Demonstrators blocked the Kaghan Highway and demanded the immediate arrest of those involved.
After negotiations with the administration reportedly failed, enraged protesters vandalized and set fire to the Balakot Police Station.
Javed Mehandri, a resident of Balakot in Mansehra district, was widely known for his sense of humor and lively personality.
His comedic videos, often uploaded on TikTok by close associates, enjoyed immense popularity across the Hazara Division, bringing smiles to audiences of all ages.
SHO Balakot Police Station, Syed Israr Shah, confirmed that the suspect has been identified through the viral video and that a comprehensive investigation is underway.
بالاکوٹ میں مجذوب جاوید المعروف مہانڈری کے قتل پر صوبائی اسمبلی کے سپیکر اور وفاقی وزیر مذہبی امور نے ملزم کو سزا دلوانے کے بیانات جاری کیے۔ pic.twitter.com/mpmEtvQ4ex
— A.Waheed Murad (@awaheedmurad) March 2, 2026