Syed Ali Shah:
QUETTA: A female doctor sustained severe injuries after a horrific acid attack inside the Provincial Sandeman Civil Hospital, Quetta, on Saturday, triggering shock and concern across the medical community.
According to police and hospital sources, the incident took place in the General Surgery Department, where the suspect — reportedly a hospital employee — allegedly threw acid on the doctor before fleeing the scene. She was immediately provided emergency care and later shifted to Karachi via air ambulance due to the severity of her burns.
Law enforcement agencies launched a swift operation soon after the incident. Police officials stated that the suspect was tracked using CCTV footage from the hospital. During the attempted arrest, he allegedly resisted and tried to escape. In the ensuing police encounter, the suspect was killed.
Investigators are currently probing the motive behind the attack, which is still unclear. Officials confirmed that both the victim and the suspect were associated with the same hospital.
Speaking to Quetta Voice, Balochistan Chief Minister Mir Sarfraz Bugti said the provincial government is fully prepared to shift the injured doctor to Thailand if required for advanced treatment. He strongly condemned the attack, calling it a “heinous and unacceptable act,” and stressed that it is the government’s responsibility to ensure protection of citizens.
He further stated that law enforcement acted immediately after the incident and the attacker was traced through CCTV footage before being neutralized during the operation. The Chief Minister also urged that the matter should not be politicized, adding that the government responded without delay.
Bugti assured that he is personally monitoring the situation and that a detailed report has been sought from authorities. He reiterated that those involved in violence against healthcare professionals would face strict legal action.
Doctors’ associations and healthcare workers have strongly condemned the attack, calling for enhanced security measures in hospitals and safer working conditions for medical staff.
Authorities say investigations are ongoing and further details will be shared as the case develops.
