In a significant breakthrough, law enforcement officials in Kohat have apprehended two individuals suspected of involvement in the tragic killing of Lady Doctor Dr Mehwish. The case, which had gripped the local community since the incident, was resolved through a meticulous and technology-aided investigation carried out despite difficult security challenges in the region.
The fatal attack occurred on the evening of February 22, 2026, at approximately 8:05 pm near Usman Mosque, situated close to the Kohat Development Authority (KDA) Hospital. Dr Mehwish was reportedly targeted by unidentified armed assailants who opened fire, resulting in her immediate death at the scene. The swift response by police teams ensured the area was promptly secured, forensic experts were deployed to gather critical evidence, and a formal case was registered against the unknown perpetrators.
In the initial phase of the investigation, the victim’s husband, Muhammad Hasnain, a resident of the KDA area, informed authorities that there were no known personal disputes or enmities involving Dr Mehwish. This statement prompted investigators to pursue multiple lines of inquiry, employing advanced investigative techniques and intelligence resources to uncover the truth behind the attack.
The provincial government reacted firmly to the incident, demanding an immediate and comprehensive report on the progress of the investigation. Authorities emphasized the urgency of bringing the culprits to justice, instructing police officials to expedite the process of identifying and apprehending those responsible. In response, District Police Officer (DPO) Shehbaz Elahi assembled specialized teams, including senior police officials such as the SP City, SP Investigation, DSP Headquarters, and the SHO of KDA Police Station, to lead the probe.
These dedicated teams conducted a series of intelligence-driven operations and raids across various locations, leveraging both modern technology and human intelligence networks. Their efforts led to the recovery of the firearm used in the murder, as well as a motorcycle and a rickshaw believed to have been utilized by the suspects during the crime. The investigation eventually identified the accused as Hayat Gul and Saif Ali.
Following coordinated raids spanning multiple districts, law enforcement successfully arrested both suspects from the Ghamkol No. 3 area. Preliminary interrogations revealed that the motive behind the killing appeared to be a personal dispute that escalated tragically. It is understood that a verbal altercation between Hayat Gul and Dr Mehwish escalated into a retaliatory act of violence, culminating in the fatal shooting.
Further inquiries are ongoing, with police officials committed to compiling a robust, evidence-backed challan to present in court. The authorities have assured the public that they will pursue the case vigorously to ensure the accused face strict and exemplary punishment under the law.
Meanwhile, social media discussions have circulated claims that the incident was triggered by a confrontation between Dr Mehwish and a male attendant at the hospital. Reports suggest that the doctor had asked the attendant to vacate a women’s waiting area, leading to a brief argument. Following this, the suspect allegedly intercepted Dr Mehwish outside the hospital premises and opened fire, resulting in the tragic outcome.
This case has highlighted the challenges faced by medical professionals, especially women, in maintaining safety while performing their duties. The swift action by police and the provincial government’s firm stance reflect a growing commitment to addressing violence against healthcare workers and ensuring justice is served promptly.
