Suspect in Quetta Acid Attack on Doctor Killed in Police Encounter
QUETTA: A 26-year-old suspect accused of attacking a female doctor with acid at Sandeman Provincial Hospital in Quetta was killed during a police encounter, authorities reported on Saturday.
The suspect, identified as Hamayun Shah, who worked as a lift operator at the hospital, was involved in the acid attack on Dr. Mahnoor Nasir while she was on duty, according to police sources.
Police located the suspect at a bus stop based on intelligence and attempted to apprehend him. However, he allegedly opened fire on the officers, prompting an exchange of gunfire that resulted in his death.
Earlier, Dr. Mahnoor was assaulted with acid within the hospital premises and was subsequently transferred to a private hospital for immediate medical treatment. Surveillance footage captured the assailant approaching a hospital ward, carrying out the attack, and fleeing the scene. The victim was seen trying to pursue the attacker before collapsing outside the ward.
The incident has caused widespread outrage within the medical community, with young doctors calling for justice and enhanced security measures.
In response, Balochistan Chief Minister Sarfaraz Bugti contacted the victim’s family and instructed authorities to ensure Dr. Nasir receives the best possible medical care. The provincial government committed to covering all treatment expenses related to the attack.
Provincial Health Minister Bakht Muhammad Kakar confirmed that arrangements had been made to transfer Dr. Nasir to Karachi via air ambulance for specialized treatment and assured continuous government support until her full recovery.
The chief minister and other provincial officials condemned the attack strongly and have ordered a prompt and thorough investigation into the incident.