Seven held over Sialkot stampede; minister unsure of Mr Patlu's arrest

Punjab Information Minister Azma Bokhari has said she cannot confirm the arrest of TikToker Mr Patlu over the stampede at his mehndi ceremony in Sialkot, in which two people were killed, and that seven suspects are in custody in the case.

Bokhari said she had tried to obtain confirmation of Mr Patlu's arrest but had not received an official response from the authorities, Minute Mirror reported.

A case has been registered over negligence and lapses in the management of the event. Seven suspects have been arrested and police are carrying out raids to catch two other people who remain at large, the minister said.

On the permissions granted for the ceremony, Bokhari said the administration issued a no-objection certificate under the rules governing musical gatherings and public events. She said organisers were responsible for security and arrangements inside the venue, while the NOC also set out responsibilities for security outside it.

The minister said the TikToker had publicised his wedding celebrations on a large scale, announcing prizes and a lucky draw, and that the announcements drew thousands of people to one place. The crowd became uncontrollable amid inadequate arrangements and the resulting stampede killed two people and injured several others.

Bokhari called the incident extremely unfortunate and said such a tragedy should never have happened. She said the rule of law remained in force in Punjab and that no one found responsible would be spared. A complete investigation would be held and those found involved would be brought before the courts, she said, adding that the action should also prevent similar incidents caused by negligence in future.

Tapmad reported that the Islamabad High Court had granted Mr Patlu relief, protecting him from arrest until November 10. Minute Mirror's account of the minister's remarks did not mention any court proceedings.