Police have launched an investigation after a well-known social media influencer and TikToker, Hakeem Babar, allegedly fell ill after being served a suspicious drink in the Kotli Khokhran area in the Begowala police precincts.
According to police, Hakeem Babar, a resident of Rawalpindi, had travelled to Sialkot on the invitation of an old friend following a wedding ceremony in the village. The influencer alleged that he was invited to the home of a man identified as Safdar, where he was offered juice under the pretext of taking photographs.
Speaking to 24 News, Hakeem Babar claimed that shortly after consuming the juice, his condition became abnormal and he began experiencing blurred vision, loss of focus and severe discomfort.
“I believe something poisonous or intoxicating was mixed into my drink,” he alleged, adding that he somehow managed to leave the location with his wife before losing consciousness completely.
According to the FIR, registered on the complaint of the victim, police have named Safdar and Ali as suspects in the case. The FIR states that the accused were allegedly jealous of Hakeem Babar’s growing fame and popularity on social media.
The TikToker said there had been no financial dealings, land disputes or other known conflicts between him and the accused.
After his health deteriorated, Hakeem Babar was rushed to THQ Hospital Sambrial, where doctors provided emergency treatment, including a stomach wash. Hospital officials confirmed that he was later discharged after his condition improved and was declared out of danger.
However, medical authorities stated that no clear evidence of poisoning was found during the initial examination. Officials added that biological samples had been collected and sent to a forensic laboratory for detailed analysis to determine whether any toxic substance was involved.
A police spokesperson confirmed that a case had been registered and that investigations were underway to establish the facts. Police teams are conducting raids at various locations to arrest the nominated suspects.
“Strict legal action will be taken against those responsible once the final medical and forensic reports are received,” the spokesperson said.
Hakeem Babar has appealed to the Punjab government and Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz to ensure justice and take strict action against those found guilty.
“I have been subjected to great injustice and abuse. The culprits should be punished according to the law,” he said.