SWAT β A tragic incident occurred in the Arkot area of Matta tehsil, where unidentified gunmen attacked a polio team, killing a Levies official who was guarding health workers administering vaccines.
According to Swat District Police Officer (DPO) Muhammad Umar, the polio team was conducting a door-to-door vaccination drive when the assailants opened fire. Levies officer Abdul Kabir, who was deployed outside a house to protect the female health workers, was fatally shot and embraced martyrdom on the spot.
His body was later moved to a nearby hospital by local authorities. Following the attack, security forces surrounded the area and launched a large-scale search operation to arrest those responsible.
Interior Minister Condemns the Attack
Interior Minister Mohsin Naqvi strongly condemned the assault on the polio team in Matta, praising the bravery and sacrifice of the martyred Levies officer.
βAbdul Kabir attained martyrdom while protecting those securing the future of our children,β Naqvi said, adding that such acts of violence would not deter Pakistanβs fight against polio.
He expressed condolences to the bereaved family and vowed strict action against the perpetrators.
PM Shehbaz Sharifβs Response
Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif also denounced the terrorist attack, expressing deep sorrow over the loss of life. He stated that targeting individuals performing essential health duties is an unforgivable act.
βThe anti-polio campaign will continue with full strength until Pakistan becomes completely polio-free,β the PM said.
Police Action Underway
Authorities have intensified operations in the Arkot area to trace and apprehend the attackers. Police officials reaffirmed that those behind the assault on the polio team would be brought to justice.
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They also emphasized that such incidents will not stop the governmentβs commitment to eradicating polio from the country.