UP YouTuber Slashed in Loni Office, 7 Named in FIR

February 28, 2026

Ghaziabad, Uttar Pradesh — In a shocking knife attack in Loni on Friday morning, popular YouTuber Salim Ahmed, also known as Saleem Wastik, was slashed multiple times inside his office, leaving him critically injured. Police have registered a case and named seven individuals in the FIR, while an investigation into the motive and the attackers’ identities is ongoing.

Brutal Attack in Early Hours

The incident occurred shortly after Salim Ahmed offered his morning prayers on February 27, 2026, at his office located in the Ali Garden area of Loni, within the Ghaziabad district. Two helmeted assailants riding a motorcycle were reportedly seen loitering near the premises before making their move. They reportedly entered Wastik’s office and slashed him multiple times with sharp-edged weapons, targeting his neck, abdomen, and ear, according to police.

Locals who heard the commotion rushed to the scene and alerted the authorities. Wastik was initially taken to a local hospital in Loni, but due to the severity of his injuries, he was referred to Guru Teg Bahadur (GTB) Hospital in Delhi, where he remains in critical condition.

Who is Saleem Wastik?

Saleem Wastik, aged around 50, runs a YouTube channel under his own name. He is known for posting videos that critics label as controversial, particularly on religious and social issues. According to preliminary police insights, the attack might be linked to his online content, which allegedly criticised certain practices within the Muslim community. However, investigators have stated that they are still exploring all possible motives and have not confirmed any definitive reason.

In addition to his YouTube presence, Wastik has appeared on television debates and is recognized on social media for his outspoken views. Some commentators identify him as an “ex-Muslim” voice critical of religious orthodoxies, though this characterization and its link to the attack remain under official review as police continue their probe.

FIR and Investigation Details

An FIR was filed at the Loni Police Station on the complaint of Wastik’s son, Usman. The report names seven individuals, including some local figures, though two of the attackers who carried out the stabbing remain unidentified and at large. Police are working to secure CCTV footage from surrounding areas to trace the motorcycle and identify the culprits involved.

ACP Loni Siddhartha Gautam confirmed that several investigative teams have been formed to investigate the case and apprehend the suspects. Police officials are also interviewing neighbours and reviewing surveillance footage in hopes of piecing together the events leading up to the assault.

Response from Authorities

The attack has drawn attention from senior officials. Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath reportedly took cognisance of the situation and instructed police to take “strict action” against those responsible for attacking Wastik and disturbing law and order. The state government emphasized that there is no place for terror or violence in Uttar Pradesh and that any individual who violates the law, regardless of motive, will face due process.

Local police have urged witnesses and anyone with information to come forward, stressing that anyone with relevant CCTV footage or leads should assist investigators to ensure a swift resolution.

Public Reaction and Broader Implications

News of the attack has sparked concern among digital creators and free-speech advocates, with many observers questioning the safety of content creators who tackle sensitive societal issues. While the investigation continues, authorities reiterated that motive has not been formally established and that no conclusions should be drawn prematurely.

As the case unfolds, updates from police and hospital sources are expected to shed further light on both the attacker’s identities and Wastik’s medical status in the coming days.