The suspect accused of throwing acid on a female doctor at Civil Hospital Quetta was killed in a police encounter while allegedly attempting to evade arrest, police said on Saturday.

The attack took place at Civil Hospital, where Dr Mah Noor Nasir was allegedly targeted by Humayun Shah, a hospital lift operator.

CCTV footage that surfaced after the incident reportedly shows the suspect throwing acid at the doctor.

Dr Mah Noor sustained serious injuries in the attack and was initially shifted to a private hospital for treatment. Another individual was also injured in the incident.

Following the attack, Balochistan Health Minister Bakht Muhammad Kakar took notice of the matter and directed the provincial police chief to ensure the suspect’s immediate arrest.

He described the attack as deeply regrettable and pledged full medical support for the injured doctor.

The minister said violence against a female doctor was unacceptable and vowed that the perpetrator would be brought to justice.

Dr Mah Noor was later airlifted to Karachi for specialised medical treatment.

According to police, the suspect fled towards a bus terminal on Sariab Road after the incident. A police team attempted to intercept him, but he allegedly opened fire to avoid arrest.

Police said officers returned fire, and the suspect was killed during the exchange of gunfire.

Authorities said a pistol and four rounds of ammunition were recovered from his possession.

Meanwhile, protests by the Young Doctors Association led to the postponement of a planned press conference by the Deputy Inspector General of Police, Quetta. Police said further investigation into the case is underway.