KARACHI: A woman doctor who was attacked with acid at a government hospital in Quetta is out of danger and undergoing specialised treatment in Karachi, hospital sources confirmed on Wednesday.
Dr Mah Noor, a postgraduate trainee doctor, was shifted to a private hospital in Karachi after receiving initial medical care in Quetta. Doctors treating her said she suffered approximately 13 percent burn injuries and is currently admitted to the plastic surgery ward.
Hospital officials said her condition is stable and she remains under close observation by a multidisciplinary team of specialists. Although her eyes were affected in the attack, sources confirmed that her eyesight is safe.
According to hospital administration, Dr Mah Noor was airlifted to Karachi following emergency arrangements to ensure access to advanced burn and reconstructive care.
Acid attack at Quetta hospital
The incident occurred at Sandeman Provincial Hospital, one of Balochistan’s largest government-run healthcare facilities.
Police said an employee allegedly threw acid on the doctor inside the general surgery unit before fleeing the hospital. A senior hospital official said the victim sustained burn injuries to her face, chest, legs and other parts of her body.
The attack triggered panic among hospital staff and patients, while emergency teams rushed the injured doctor for treatment.
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Suspect killed in police encounter
According to police, the suspect, identified as Humayun Shah, was later traced while allegedly attempting to flee Quetta by bus.
Police officials said officers asked the suspect to surrender, but he opened fire on the police team. The suspect was killed in the ensuing exchange of fire.
DIG Quetta Imran Shaukat said the accused was killed while trying to escape the city. Police added that investigations into the incident are continuing.
Doctors boycott duties in protest
The attack sparked outrage within the medical community across Balochistan.
The Young Doctors Association announced a boycott of duties in outpatient departments and hospital wards in Quetta to protest the attack and demand better security.
Doctors have called for immediate steps to improve safety arrangements for healthcare workers, particularly female doctors working in public hospitals.
Government takes notice
Balochistan Chief Minister Sarfraz Bugti and provincial spokesperson Bakht Kakar strongly condemned the incident.
A spokesperson for the Balochistan government said the provincial administration would bear all treatment expenses and ensure the best possible medical care for Dr Mah Noor.
Authorities said investigations are being conducted from multiple angles as the government reviews hospital security protocols in the wake of the attack.
