Polio vaccination worker killed in armed attack in eastern Afghanistan

A polio vaccination worker was killed and another escaped unharmed after an attack by unidentified armed assailants in the city of Gardez, located in Afghanistan’s Paktia province.

The incident occurred on Monday, the first day of the second round of the national polio vaccination campaign.

According to eyewitnesses, an assailant opened fire on two healthcare workers. One of them was killed at the scene, while the other managed to flee and sought refuge in a nearby mosque.

Local authorities have yet to issue an official statement regarding the attack, and no group has claimed responsibility.

The attack highlights the ongoing challenges faced by healthcare workers in conflict-affected regions of Afghanistan, where efforts to eradicate polio continue under difficult and often dangerous conditions.

The Interior Ministry confirmed the incident and said one suspect has been arrested.

Abdul Mateen Qani, spokesperson for the Ministry, told Ariana News that the attacker was arrested by security forces, and that an investigation is currently underway.

“The suspect has been apprehended by our security personnel, and the investigation is ongoing,” Qani stated. “Further details will be shared with the media.”

The motive behind the attack remains unclear.