Protests as female doctor gunned down in Kohat

A female doctor was shot dead on Monday monrning by unidentified assailants in the Khyber Pakhtunkhwa’s Kohat after returning from work, prompting doctors to shut down hospitals in protest.

Police said Dr Mehwish was returning home in a rickshaw after completing her duty at the DHQ Kohat when gunmen opened fire. As a result, she died on the spot while the attackers managed to flee after the incident. Rescue teams shifted her body to the hospital for legal formalities.

District Police Officer Shehbaz Elahi visited the scene and ordered a swift investigation. He said evidence has been sent for forensic analysis and search operations are underway. No arrests have been made so far.

While the motive remains unconfirmed, reports suggested the attack followed an altercation at the hospital. Police have not verified these claims.

Young Doctors Association announced a strike and the closure of the Liaquat Memorial Hospital and public hospitals in the district until the arrest of the assailants, disrupting medical services.

The association’s president said doctors have are not provided adequate security and vowed not to remain silent over the incident. “Doctors serve the public 24 hours in Ramadan and in every circumstance. Is this treatment for the doctors just?” said Dr Ubaid.