In a disturbing incident, a woman polio worker was gang-raped by three men during a vaccination campaign in Jacobabad, a district in southern Sindh province, Pakistan. The victim reported the assault to authorities, stating that she was attacked after entering a house to administer polio drops to children.
The key suspect, identified as Ahmad Jakhrani, has been apprehended by Pakistani police, while two other suspects remain at large. The police are actively seeking the remaining perpetrators accused of assaulting the woman.
Following the attack, a local police chief was dismissed for negligence in providing adequate security to the polio worker. The incident has shocked many Pakistanis, as sexual assaults of this nature are rare in the country.
Women polio workers have previously faced harassment during vaccination campaigns, prompting concerns about their safety. The provincial government in Sindh has pledged a thorough investigation into the case.
Furthermore, the husband of the victim was detained for evicting her from their home and threatening her life, citing concerns about family honor. Tragically, so-called honor killings are still prevalent in Pakistan, where women are often targeted for allegedly dishonoring their families.
Police have stationed officers at the residence where the victim is currently staying with relatives to ensure her safety. Anti-polio campaigns in Pakistan are frequently marred by violence, with militants targeting vaccination teams and security personnel.
Despite ongoing challenges, Pakistan continues its efforts to combat polio, with 17 new cases reported since January. The country, along with Afghanistan, remains one of the few where polio transmission has not been halted.
The government of Pakistan is preparing for another polio vaccination drive in October to address the persistent threat posed by the disease.
