Kamran Ali
Correspondent Nukta
Kamran Ali, a seasoned journalist from Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, Pakistan, has a decade of experience covering terrorism, human rights, politics, economy, climate change, culture, and sports. With an MS in Media Studies, he has worked across print, radio, TV, and digital media, producing investigative reports and co-hosting shows that highlight critical issues.
A woman doctor in Pakistan’s northwestern province of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa was shot at six times and killed by a patient's attendant, her post-mortem report revealed on Thursday.
The post-mortem, conducted by Dr. Nazia Mubarik at District Headquarter Hospital (DHQ) Kohat, revealed that Dr. Mahwish Hasnain sustained gunshot wounds to her hands, chest, and abdomen. The injuries caused severe trauma to vital organs, including her heart and lungs. The report said excessive bleeding and shock led to cardiopulmonary arrest and her death.
The shooting occurred four days ago after a Dr. Mahwish asked a patient's attendant to "wait outside" the ward.
Hammad Khan, the doctor’s cousin, told Nukta that the incident happened while Dr. Mahwish was on duty at a local hospital. “An attendant attempted to enter the female ward and was asked to wait outside. A brief exchange of words followed, which appeared to anger him,” Khan said.
He added that the suspect later followed Dr. Mahwish after her shift and intercepted her rickshaw on the way home, opening fire and killing her.
Suspects identified
Despite ongoing protests and a boycott by the medical community demanding justice, authorities have not yet arrested the suspect.
District Police Officer Shehbaz Elahi said the suspects have been identified and their images released to the public. “The suspects have been identified as Hayat Gul and Saif Ali Khan. Anyone with information about their whereabouts should contact the police. Tipsters’ identities will be kept confidential,” he said.
Suspects Saif Ali Khan and Hayat Gul.Nukta
Police said special teams are conducting targeted raids to track and apprehend the suspects.
Doctors strike, demand protection
The killing has sparked widespread protests by doctors’ associations across the province. Elective services at public hospitals were suspended in a show of solidarity and a call for swift justice.
Dr. Asfandyar Battani, president of the Young Doctors Association, told Nukta, “If doctors are not safe while performing their duties, how can we continue to work under such conditions? We need protection.” He added that the strike would continue until the alleged killers are caught and urged authorities to ensure the safety of healthcare workers.
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