Authorities have confirmed the apprehension of an individual suspected of carrying out an acid attack on a woman in Karachi’s Upper Gizri district. The announcement was made by South Deputy Inspector General (DIG) Syed Asad Raza on Saturday.
The incident occurred on Thursday, resulting in severe burns for a 35-year-old woman, who was subsequently transported to the Burns Centre at Dr. Ruth Pfau Civil Hospital in an Edhi ambulance for urgent medical care.
Details of the Arrest
DIG Raza indicated that the suspect fled to his hometown in Rajanpur, Punjab, following the attack. However, coordinated efforts between local authorities and Sindh Police led to his capture.
The police official has formally requested the Karachi additional inspector general of police to communicate with the Sindh Home Department, seeking authorization to dispatch a police unit to Rajanpur to return the suspect to Karachi.
Victim’s Condition and Response from Officials
According to Police Surgeon Dr. Summaiya Syed, the victim sustained burns affecting approximately 15 percent of her body, including her face, neck, and abdomen. At the time of the attack, she was on her way home after working at a bungalow in Clifton.
In response to the incident, Sindh Home Minister Ziaul Hassan Lanjar expressed serious concern and urged law enforcement to utilize all necessary resources for the swift capture of the assailant and to ensure that legal proceedings are initiated against him.
Legal Implications of Acid Attacks
The Supreme Court of Pakistan, earlier this year in June, categorized acid attacks as more egregious than homicide, labeling them as acts that effectively sentence victims to a “living death.” This highlights the severity of such crimes and the urgent need for justice.
