Iraqi TikTok Star Om Fahad Killed in Baghdad Shooting

Baghdad, Iraq - Prominent Iraqi social media influencer Om Fahad, whose real name was Ghufran Sawadi, was shot dead outside her residence in the eastern Zayna neighborhood of Baghdad on Friday, April 26th, 2024.

The Iraqi Interior Ministry confirmed the incident in a statement, revealing the victim's identity as a "woman known on social networking sites" killed by unidentified assailants. A specialized investigation team has been formed to investigate the circumstances surrounding her death.

Local media reports suggest Fahad was shot in her car by a single gunman on a motorbike who may have disguised himself as a food delivery person.  The US-based Al Hurra news agency further reported that another woman was injured in the attack.

Social Media Stardom and Legal Controversy

Fahad gained fame on TikTok for her light-hearted dance videos featuring popular music and form-fitting clothing, amassing tens of thousands of followers. However, in February 2023, she faced legal repercussions.

An Iraqi court sentenced her to six months in prison for sharing videos deemed to violate standards of "modesty and public morality." This decision followed the establishment of a government committee tasked with monitoring social media platforms for "offensive content."

Escalating Feud with Another Influencer

Recent reports indicated a growing social media feud between Fahad and fellow influencer Dalia Naeem, known as "Iraqi Barbie" for her cosmetic surgeries. Media outlets claim Naeem threatened to expose Fahad's alleged relationships with high-ranking Iraqi officials.

Investigation Underway

The motives behind Fahad's killing remain unclear. Iraqi authorities are actively investigating the incident, and further information is expected to be released.