Acid attack victim hospitalised in Islamabad; police hunt for suspects

Police launch investigation into the incident and are searching for three suspects involved in the attack.

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ISLAMABAD:

A woman suffered severe injuries to her face and lower body after suffering a horrific acid attack in the F-10 area of Islamabad last night.

Police sources report that the woman, who identified herself as Saima, was found near F-10 in a semi-conscious state.

The woman later told police that three men threw acid on her before fleeing the scene.

She was shifted to a nearby hospital, where she is receiving medical treatment. Her condition is now stable, though she remains under observation, according to doctors.

The Islamabad police have launched an investigation into the incident and are actively searching for the suspects involved in this attack.

Efforts are underway to apprehend those responsible, with authorities saying they are committed to bringing the culprits to justice.

Women are the primary victims in over 80% of acid attack cases, often targeted for rejecting marriage proposals, refusing sexual advances, resisting dowry demands, or due to revenge from estranged partners or their families.

Since 2014, the incidence of acid attacks in Pakistan has decreased by 50%, from 153 reported cases. This decline is largely attributed to the stringent penalties under the law, which include life imprisonment and a fine of one million rupees.

In May 2018, Pakistan’s National Assembly passed "The Acid and Burn Crime Bill 2017," which ensures free medical treatment and rehabilitation for acid attack survivors and aims to expedite the trial process for offenders.

However, despite the bill’s passage, its implementation has remained faced delays over the years.