Constable Martyred After Unknown Assailants Open Fire on Polio Team in Balochistan’s Dera Murad Jamali

Tragedy struck in Dera Murad Jamali, Balochistan, as a police constable, Farhan Bashir, was martyred while providing security for a polio vaccination team. The brutal attack, carried out by unknown armed assailants on motorcycles, occurred during the team's lunch break, highlighting the persistent dangers faced by those engaged in vital public health initiatives. This incident is a stark reminder of the challenges confronting Pakistan's ongoing efforts to eradicate polio, a mission that demands immense courage and sacrifice from our frontline workers and security personnel.

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A constable was martyred after armed men opened fire on police personnel. However, the other members of the team remained unhurt in the firing

The assailants fired ten 9mm bullets at Constable Bashir, killing him instantly before making their escape. Authorities have launched a search operation to apprehend those responsible. Significantly, the Nasirabad Deputy Commissioner, Zulfiqar Ali Karrar, has declared that the anti-polio campaign will proceed undeterred in the district. This resolve underscores Pakistan's unwavering commitment to public health, refusing to let violence derail this critical national mission. The attack follows a similar incident in Hangu, Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, where a police constable was martyred and four others injured the same day the second nationwide polio vaccination campaign commenced.

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the anti-polio campaign would continue in the district despite the incident

The Pakistan Polio Eradication Initiative (PEI) has expressed deep concern over these targeted attacks. Ayesha Raza Farooq, the prime minister’s focal person on polio eradication, conveyed heartfelt condolences to the martyred constable's family, emphasizing solidarity with law enforcement and frontline workers. "Their courage reflects the best of our national spirit, and we will not allow such acts of violence to undermine this vital mission," she stated, reinforcing that the safety of the teams is non-negotiable. The PEI reiterated Pakistan's resolute commitment to polio eradication, asserting that these acts will not deter the collective mission.

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We extend our heartfelt condolences to his family and stand in solidarity with our law enforcement personnel and frontline workers who continue to serve despite these risks. Their courage reflects the best of our national spirit, and we will not allow such acts of violence to undermine this vital mission. The safety of our teams remains non-negotiable

From our perspective in Pakistan, these attacks are not merely security incidents; they are assaults on our national progress and the well-being of our children. While international media may report on the security breakdown, they often miss the profound resilience and determination of our people to overcome such obstacles. The courage shown by individuals like Constable Bashir, and the steadfastness of the polio teams and authorities, exemplify the indomitable spirit of Pakistan. This story is uniquely important to us as it directly impacts our efforts to protect future generations and showcases the bravery of our security forces who stand guard against those who seek to disrupt our progress. The continuation of the polio campaign, despite such violence, sends a powerful message of national resolve.

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Despite these challenges, Pakistan’s commitment to polio eradication remains resolute. These acts will not deter our collective mission