A female doctor was shot dead in Kohat on Monday in what police described as a targeted attack.
According to officials, Dr Mehwish Hasnain was returning home after completing her shift at the District Headquarters (DHQ) Hospital when unidentified assailants opened fire on her vehicle on Double Road in the KDA area. She sustained critical injuries in the shooting.
Police teams reached the scene immediately and transported her to the hospital, but she succumbed to her wounds. Some unconfirmed reports suggested that the attack may have been carried out by a patient’s attendant following an alleged dispute at the hospital earlier.
Law enforcement agencies have launched a search operation to apprehend the suspect or suspects. Security has been heightened at all entry and exit points of the city. Shehbaz Elahi, District Police Officer (DPO) Kohat, visited the crime scene and instructed investigators to speed up the inquiry.
The incident sparked strong reaction from the medical community. Young doctors staged a protest in Kohat, leading to the suspension of emergency services at local hospitals.
Protesting doctors warned that healthcare facilities across Khyber Pakhtunkhwa could remain closed until those responsible are arrested. They demanded swift justice for Dr Mehwish, vowing to continue their protest if immediate action is not taken.
Funeral prayers for Dr Mehwish Hasnain will be offered today at 3pm at Janazgah No. 3, Swa Lakh graveyard in Kohat.
