A police officer was martyred and four others were injured in an attack on a security team escorting polio vaccination workers in Hangu. The incident took place near Chappri Waziran under Tal Police Station jurisdiction. The attack targeted personnel protecting the ongoing anti-polio campaign. Authorities launched a search operation after the incident.
Police identified the martyred officer as Israr-ul-Haq, a resident of Shangla. He was enrolled in an intermediate course at the Police Training Centre. The injured personnel were shifted to a nearby hospital for treatment. Security forces immediately responded to the attack.
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According to officials, police retaliated during the assault. They claimed two attackers were killed in the exchange of fire. However, other assailants managed to escape with their accomplices. The area was later sealed for investigation and clearance.
Despite the attack, officials confirmed that the anti-polio campaign will continue without interruption. DIG Kohat Irfan Tariq said terrorists cannot weaken national resolve. He praised the swift response of police forces in the area. Search operations are ongoing to trace the attackers.
Read more: 3 police officers martyred in Hangu terror attack
Meanwhile, Pakistan has launched its second nationwide anti-polio drive of 2026. The campaign aims to vaccinate over 45 million children under five. Health workers are going door to door across the country. Authorities have urged parents to cooperate to ensure complete immunization coverage.