RAHIM YAR KHAN, Jan 5: A former jockey who suffered burn injuries during his stay in the United Arab Emirates (UAE) in 1990 and arrived in Pakistan in 1997 is awaiting further treatment.

The jockey who underwent multiple surgeries in the UAE was promised further treatment but in Pakistan no government department has helped him so far.

Twenty-nine-year-old Nasir Hussain from Chak 93-P, Rahim Yar Khan, was sent to the UAE (Al Ain) in 1989 as jockey.

After one month, he was burnt along with other 20 children when a candle fell and burnt the tent where they were asleep. One child died instantly, while others were hospitalised.

Nasir was admitted to the Mafraq Hospital in Bin Yaas in Jan 1990. He remained there for eight years and underwent 17 surgeries.

Nasir added that he was treated well by Egyptian doctor Khader and consultant

Dr Hassan. During his stay at the hospital, his birthday was celebrated every year and he was paid 1,300 dirhams every month. He also learnt English from a British nursing instructor.

Nasir used to give his savings to the British instructor. When he was sent back, she had left for England and he could not collect his savings.

Nasir was sent to Pakistan in 1997 on his parents’ request. At that time, the Mafraq hospital administration was arranging further plastic surgery for him. But in his homeland, he could not get any treatment due to poverty.

Child Protection Welfare Bureau Resident Director Farhan Aamer said that Nasir’s case was being considered and the government was contacting the UAE government for treatment.