A tragic incident at City Hospital Gilgit last night left a woman dead after she was caught in crossfire during a police operation. The victim, a mother of four from Kashrote, was reportedly at the hospital for her six-day-old newborn’s routine check-up when the shooting occurred. Eyewitnesses claim police opened fire in pursuit of the suspect, and a bullet struck the woman in the head. Despite being rushed to Shaheed Saif-ur-Rehman Hospital, she succumbed to her injuries.
The hospital’s Medical Superintendent, Dr. Afzal Siraj, filed a formal complaint at Cantt Police Station, demanding legal action against the officers involved. Meanwhile, police stated that the suspect had fired at them before entering the hospital, escalating the situation. The entire Special Investigation Team (SIT) involved in the operation has been taken into custody, pending an inquiry.
Chief Minister Gilgit-Baltistan Haji Gulbar Khan took immediate notice, ordering a transparent investigation and directing the Home Secretary and Inspector General of Police to submit a detailed report within 24 hours. Expressing deep sorrow, the CM vowed accountability, saying, “This tragic case will be made an example of.” Meanwhile, protests erupted in Gilgit, with the victim’s family and locals blocking Kashrote Road, demanding justice.
Deputy Commissioner Gilgit visited the hospital, condemning the incident and assuring justice for the victim’s family. Questions have also been raised about the legality of the operation—the suspect’s father claimed his son had been granted bail until June 18 and was due in court, criticizing the high-risk police action inside a hospital.
While media reports identify the suspect as a proclaimed offender, the death of an innocent civilian has sparked public outrage. The community demands answers as authorities continue investigations.
Also read: Woman shot dead in Gilgit, husband on the run
