Police have launched an inquiry into the deaths of 14 newborn babies at Pakistan Institute of Medical Sciences (PIMS) following a recent fire. According to sources, officers have initiated the investigation under Section 174 of the Code of Criminal Procedure (CrPC).
Section 174 covers police inquiries into certain deaths and requires authorities to examine the circumstances surrounding such incidents. As part of the investigation, police have started recording statements from suspended PIMS officials.
Police Record Statements During Investigation
Officials at Karachi Company Police Station will record statements from all officials nominated in connection with the incident. Sources said investigators are conducting the probe in light of findings from the inquiry committee formed by the prime minister.
Further proceedings will depend on the findings of the police investigation and the committee’s conclusions. Authorities are expected to determine the circumstances that led to the deaths before deciding on further action.
Nurse Praised For Rescue During Fire
Meanwhile, nurse Razia Noreen has received widespread recognition for her courage during the PIMS fire. She reportedly risked her life to enter a burning room and rescue a newborn trapped inside.
In an interview with The Washington Post, Noreen said she entered the fire-hit room solely to save the babies. She managed to bring one newborn to safety within eight seconds, according to the report.
Noreen said she did not think about her own safety while entering the smoke-filled room. Instead, she focused entirely on helping the babies survive the incident.
“I did not think about becoming a hero; I simply performed my duty as a nurse and as a mother,” she said, according to The Washington Post. Her actions have since drawn praise from people across different sections of Pakistani society.
The investigation will now focus on establishing the circumstances surrounding the deaths and identifying any responsibility. Authorities will determine further proceedings after reviewing the investigation findings.
