Enlarge image
Pakistani investigators with an X-ray of a woman who had a nail hammered into her head by a so-called faith healer
Photo: Capital City Police Peshawar via Twitter
In Pakistan, a pregnant woman who had already given birth to three girls turned to a so-called faith healer.
He should ensure that this time she gives birth to a boy – contrary to the medical prognosis that she already had after an ultrasound.
The quack doctor didn't hesitate for long - and drove a nail about two inches long into the forehead of the perplexed woman.
According to media reports, he used a hammer or another heavy object to do this.
"She was fully conscious but in excruciating pain"
The woman remained conscious and in her pain turned to a real medical professional.
Doctor Haider Khan told AFP the woman came to his clinic in the city of Peshawar after trying unsuccessfully to remove the nail herself with pliers.
"She was fully conscious but in excruciating pain."
An X-ray, according to Khan, showed the nail had pierced the woman's forehead but missed her brain.
The metal pin was then professionally removed by neurosurgeons at Lady Reading Hospital.
Notorious unequal treatment of women
In South Asia, many people want sons – also because they hope they will give them financial security in old age.
In the current case, the woman is said to have been pressured by her husband to finally give birth to a boy, local media reported.
Otherwise he will get divorced and marry another woman, so the threat.
A lack of education and the notorious unequal treatment of women make such incidents possible in Pakistan.
Despite the disapproval of many Islamic representatives, many people still turn to alleged miracle workers with their problems.
Peshawar Police Chief Abbas Ahsan told AFP his agency is currently looking for the woman to help locate the faith healer.
"We'll catch the warlock soon," Ahsan said.
The husband can also be held responsible.
ala/AFP
