Balochistan govt to send acid attack victim Dr Mahnoor to US for special treatment

The Balochistan government announced on Friday that acid attack survivor Dr Mahnoor Naseer would be sent to the United States for special medical treatment.

Dr Mahnoor was critically injured when an attacker allegedly threw acid on her while she was on duty in the surgical ward of Quetta's Civil Sandeman Hospital last week. The suspect fled the scene but was later killed in an exchange of fire with police.

The decision was taken on the directives of Chief Minister Mir Sarfraz Bugti, according to a statement issued by the Balochistan government, which said all necessary arrangements had been completed for her transfer abroad for specialised medical care.

It said Dr Mahnoor was currently undergoing treatment in Karachi, where she had been provided the best possible medical facilities.

The statement added that the provincial government was ensuring comprehensive medical care for the affected doctor on the chief minister’s instructions.

“Preparations for her further treatment in the US have now been finalised,” it added.

Read This: PMA demands judicial probe into acid attack on Dr Mahnoor

It further said the government stood by Dr Mahnoor “at every step” and would continue to extend support in line with principles of “humanity, compassion and service”.

According to officials, the incident took place inside Civil Hospital Quetta, where the doctor was targeted while performing her duties. She was later airlifted to Karachi and shifted to a private hospital, where she underwent a successful surgery a few days later. Soon after the incident, police launched a search operation to trace the suspect.

The prime suspect in the case, identified as Humayun Shah, was later killed in a police encounter near Noshki bus stop after allegedly opening fire on law enforcement personnel during a district-wide manhunt.

Officials said the incident occurred at the hospital’s surgical complex, which houses five wards and three operating theatres. They added that, under standard security protocols, at least seven to eight security guards are required for each ward and operating theatre.

Also Read: CM Bugti announces civil award for hospital employee after acid attack

The Pakistan Medical Association (PMA) Quetta Zone strongly condemned the attack on Dr Mahnoor and demanded a judicial inquiry to bring the facts before the public.

A hospital employee, Abdul Razzaq Tarakai, was also injured while attempting to save the doctor during the attack. In recognition of his bravery, Chief Minister Bugti announced a civil award for him.