Two security personnel killed in attack

Two Levies personnel guarding a polio vaccination team were gunned down on Wednesday by unidentified attackers in Balochistan’s Mastung district, according to an official.

The incident happened in the Teeri area, where unknown attackers opened fire on the security officials. One officer died at the scene, while the other died while being taken to Nawab Ghous Bakhsh Memorial Hospital.

Assistant Commissioner Akram Harifal confirmed the attack and said that police and other law enforcement agencies reached the spot quickly and started collecting evidence. He added that security around polio teams in the region has now been increased following the tragic incident.

Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif strongly condemned the attack. He said those involved in harming innocent lives are enemies of humanity and will be brought to justice. He expressed deep sorrow over the martyrdom of the Levies personnel and assured that the fight to eliminate polio from Pakistan will continue with full force. He urged citizens not to lose hope and to ensure their children receive vaccination.

Balochistan government spokesperson Shahid Rind also denounced the attack and said that the provincial government is taking strict steps to strengthen security for all polio workers. He praised the sacrifices made by the security personnel and said the campaign will not be allowed to fail.

Pakistan, along with Afghanistan, is one of the last countries where polio remains endemic. Militant attacks on vaccination teams remain a serious threat. Earlier this week, a similar attack was reported in South Waziristan, Khyber Pakhtunkhwa. The second national anti-polio campaign of 2025 began on April 21 and will continue until April 27, with renewed commitment from the government to ensure its success.