Policeman protecting polio workers martyred in Nushki, drive suspended

On May 27, 2025, a tragic incident occurred in Nushki, Balochistan, where a police constable assigned to protect a polio vaccination team was martyred in a targeted attack. The assailants opened fire on the security personnel while the health workers were administering polio drops to children at a residence. Fortunately, the vaccination team remained unharmed. The attackers fled the scene, and no group has claimed responsibility, though suspicion likely falls on separatist and Taliban militants, who have increased attacks on Pakistani security forces and civilians.

In response to the attack, local authorities temporarily suspended the ongoing polio vaccination campaign in Nushki to ensure the safety of health workers and security personnel. This suspension has raised concerns about the potential setbacks in the country’s efforts to eradicate polio, a disease that continues to pose a significant public health threat.

The polio vaccination campaign, which aims to immunize millions of children across Pakistan, has faced numerous challenges over the years. Violence against health workers and security personnel has been a persistent issue, with over 200 such personnel killed since the 1990s. These attacks are often attributed to militant groups that propagate false claims about the vaccination campaign, such as the belief that it is a Western conspiracy to sterilize Muslims. Such misinformation has fueled resistance to the polio vaccination efforts, making it more difficult to achieve the goal of a polio-free Pakistan.

The recent attack in Nushki underscores the ongoing threats faced by those working to eliminate polio. Despite these challenges, the Pakistani government and international organizations remain committed to the cause. Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif and Interior Minister Mohsin Naqvi have condemned the attack and pledged action against the perpetrators. They emphasized the importance of protecting health workers and ensuring the continuation of the vaccination campaign.

The incident has also prompted renewed calls for increased security measures during vaccination campaigns. Local authorities are being urged to provide better protection for health workers and security personnel to prevent further attacks. Additionally, there is a need for greater public awareness to counteract the spread of misinformation about the polio vaccination program. Community engagement and education are crucial in dispelling myths and building trust in the vaccination efforts.

The attack in Nushki is a stark reminder of the challenges faced in the fight against polio in Pakistan. It highlights the need for continued vigilance, enhanced security, and public education to ensure the success of the vaccination campaigns. The sacrifices made by health workers and security personnel in this endeavor are commendable, and their safety must remain a top priority. Only through collective efforts can Pakistan hope to achieve its goal of eradicating polio and securing a healthier future for its children.