Health Department directs hospitals to treat critically injured as police pursue terrorism investigation
The Sindh government has announced that it will cover the medical expenses of people seriously injured after a vehicle crashed into a Muharram majlis outside an imambargah in Karachi’s Defence Housing Authority.
The decision came after Sunday’s incident at Masjid-o-Imambargah Baqiatullah, where a speeding vehicle rammed into a gathering of mourners. The crash killed a teenage girl and injured more than a dozen people, several of them critically.
According to the Sindh Information Department, the provincial Health Department has issued separate instructions to Aga Khan University Hospital and South City Hospital to provide immediate treatment to all critically injured patients. The hospitals have also been directed to send treatment bills and supporting vouchers to the government for reimbursement.
Sindh Health Minister Dr Azra Pechuho said the government would ensure timely and quality medical care for all those affected, including women and children hurt in the incident. She added that every possible facility would be made available to protect the lives of the injured and support their families during the crisis.
Hospitals ordered to provide immediate care without delay
Officials said the move aims to remove any financial burden from families of the victims and ensure uninterrupted treatment for those admitted in critical condition. The government has assured hospitals that expenses related to emergency care will be fully reimbursed.
The incident triggered grief and anger in the area, where mourners had gathered for Muharram observances when the vehicle broke through security barriers and entered the congregation site.
Police shift case to CTD as terrorism charges are filed
Meanwhile, police have intensified the investigation and registered a terrorism case against the driver and three companions. Authorities allege the suspects deliberately breached security arrangements before driving into the majlis.
The case has now been transferred to the Counter-Terrorism Department, which is examining witness accounts, forensic evidence and video footage circulating on social media. Investigators are expected to determine whether the act was intentional and whether additional charges will be added as the probe moves forward.
