Islamabad (Web Desk): A police official was shot dead on Monday while providing security for polio vaccinators in Jamrud town of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa’s (KP) Khyber district.
According to initial reports, Constable Abdul Khaliq, was attacked by two unidentified individuals on a motorcycle who opened fire on him. Despite being rushed to the hospital, the officer later succumbed to his injuries.
The attack occurred just as Pakistan's nationwide anti-polio campaign was launched by Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif.
The campaign, which runs from February 3 to 9, aims to vaccinate millions of children under five in an effort to eliminate polio from the country.
Speaking at the launch, the prime minister emphasized the government's commitment to eradicating the disease and praised the dedication of the vaccination teams.
Pakistan has made remarkable progress, reducing polio cases by over 99% since 1994. However, the disease has resurfaced in some of the country’s more volatile regions.
The World Health Organization (WHO) has continued to support Pakistan’s efforts, noting the country's strides toward the final phase of eradication, but also acknowledging the challenges that remain.
This tragic event serves as a stark reminder of the dangers faced by those working on the front lines of public health campaigns in conflict-prone areas.
Security for health workers continues to be a significant concern as Pakistan works to eliminate polio once and for all.