Levies official martyred in attack on anti-polio team in Swat 

Swat (Web Desk): A tragic incident occurred in Swat’s Matta tehsil on Tuesday when unidentified assailants attacked a polio vaccination team in the Arkot area, resulting in the martyrdom of a Levies personnel on duty.

According to Swat District Police Officer (DPO) Muhammad Umar, the attack took place amid an ongoing anti-polio drive when unidentified gunmen opened fire on the security team escorting the health workers.

Levies official Abdul Kabir was critically wounded in the attack and succumbed to his injuries at the scene. His body was later shifted to a nearby hospital.

Following the attack, security forces swiftly cordoned off the area and initiated a search operation to trace those responsible.

Interior Minister Mohsin Naqvi strongly denounced the firing incident that claimed the life of Abdul Kabir, expressing profound grief over his martyrdom.

He lauded the fallen officer’s courage, dedication, and unwavering commitment to duty, describing his sacrifice as a source of pride for the entire nation.

The minister extended sincere condolences to the bereaved family, assuring them of the state’s full support during this painful time.

“The whole nation holds in high esteem our brave security personnel who lay down their lives for the protection of peace and order,” Naqvi remarked.

He vowed that those behind the heinous act—targeting individuals safeguarding children’s health—would face the strictest punishment.

Reaffirming the government’s determination to eradicate terrorism, he directed law enforcement agencies to intensify efforts to capture the perpetrators and tighten security in sensitive regions.

In a separate statement, First Lady Bibi Aseefa Bhutto Zardari also condemned the attack in Matta that led to the martyrdom of a Levies officer identified as Yaseen. Deeply saddened by the loss, she said that those who attack health and security workers engaged in the noble task of protecting children from preventable diseases are enemies of humanity.

She paid rich tribute to the martyred officer’s valour and sense of duty, saying his sacrifice would be remembered with respect and gratitude.

The First Lady reiterated that the complete eradication of polio remained a national mission and emphasized that such cowardly acts could never weaken Pakistan’s determination to ensure a safe, healthy, and polio-free future for its children.

Aseefa Bhutto Zardari offered her heartfelt condolences to the grieving family and prayed for the departed soul’s eternal peace.