A postgraduate female doctor sustained serious injuries after being attacked with acid while performing her duties at Civil Sandeman Hospital in Quetta, the largest public healthcare facility in Balochistan. The disturbing incident has sparked widespread condemnation, raised concerns regarding hospital security, and highlighted the dangers faced by healthcare professionals while serving the public.
According to police officials, the attack took place inside the surgical ward of Civil Sandeman Hospital. The victim, identified as Dr. Mahnoor, was reportedly on duty when the suspect approached her and allegedly threw acid before fleeing the scene. Hospital staff responded immediately and provided emergency medical assistance before transferring her for further treatment.
Doctors treating Dr. Mahnoor stated that approximately 35 percent of her face and body suffered burn injuries as a result of the acid attack. Medical experts described her condition as serious and emphasized that she required advanced medical care. Following initial treatment in Quetta, arrangements were made to transfer her to Karachi through a special air ambulance for specialized treatment.
Investigators reviewed CCTV footage obtained from the hospital, which reportedly captured the suspect leaving the premises shortly after the attack. The footage played a critical role in identifying and tracking the alleged attacker.
In response to the shocking crime, police and security agencies launched extensive search operations and intelligence-based investigations throughout Quetta. Authorities later traced the suspect near the Nushki bus stand. According to police, an attempt was made to arrest him, but he allegedly resisted law enforcement personnel, leading to an exchange of gunfire during which the suspect was killed.
The incident prompted immediate attention from Balochistan Chief Minister Sardar Sarfaraz Bugti, who ordered a comprehensive report from relevant departments and directed authorities to ensure a transparent investigation. Government spokesperson Shahid Rind stated that the provincial government would provide the injured doctor with the best possible medical treatment and support throughout her recovery process.
The Young Doctors Association (YDA) strongly condemned the attack, calling it a major failure of hospital security. The association alleged that the suspect had been working as a private lift operator within the hospital and claimed that the assault appeared to be a deliberate attempt to murder the doctor.
YDA leaders demanded immediate administrative action, including the transfer of senior health officials and an independent judicial inquiry into the incident. They questioned how such a serious attack could occur inside a government healthcare institution despite repeated concerns regarding staff safety.
The association further warned that if authorities fail to take meaningful action and improve security measures, doctors across Balochistan could suspend routine services in public hospitals, limiting operations to emergency care only.
The acid attack has reignited discussions about workplace safety for healthcare professionals in Pakistan. Doctors, nurses, and medical staff often work under challenging conditions and require effective security arrangements to perform their duties without fear.
The incident serves as a reminder of the urgent need to strengthen security protocols in hospitals, enhance monitoring systems, and ensure accountability in order to protect healthcare workers who dedicate their lives to serving society.
