Shoaib Akhtar calls for transparent probe into PIMS tragedy

ISLAMABAD: Former Pakistan Test cricketer Shoaib Akhtar has expressed deep shock and grief over the deaths of 15 newborn babies in the tragic fire at the Pakistan Institute of Medical Sciences (PIMS) in Islamabad.

In a statement shared on social media platform X, Akhtar described the incident as an extremely painful and heartbreaking tragedy.

He said the loss of newborn children was devastating and called for a strict and transparent investigation into the incident.

Akhtar stressed that those responsible for any negligence or failure should be identified through the investigation. He said accountability was necessary to ensure that such a tragic incident does not happen again.

The former cricketer also expressed solidarity with the parents and families who lost their newborn children in the fire.

“I share the grief of all the parents and families who have lost their newborn children in such a painful manner,” Akhtar said, while praying that Allah Almighty grant them patience and strength to endure the loss.

The PIMS fire has sparked widespread grief and anger across Pakistan, with citizens, political figures and public personalities demanding a thorough investigation and accountability.

The incident has also raised questions about safety arrangements, emergency response systems and the overall preparedness of major public hospitals to deal with emergencies.