Lahore Police Arrest Man for Throwing Snake at Female Polio Worker

Lahore Police arrested a man for allegedly throwing a black snake at a female polio worker in the city's Sundar area. The suspect, identified as Mushtaq, is reportedly a snake charmer by profession. According to a spokesperson for the Lahore Deputy Inspector General (DIG) of Operations, Sundar police arrested him following the incident and registered a case against him. Police said the incident took place while the female health worker was carrying out her responsibilities as part of the ongoing polio vaccination campaign. The suspect allegedly threw a black snake at her to frighten and intimidate her before issuing threats. The incident prompted police action, with officers taking notice of the reported harassment and initiating proceedings against the suspect. According to reports, a case has been registered against Mushtaq on charges related to mistreating the female polio worker and obstructing the performance of official duties. However, the available reports did not specify the exact legal provisions under which the case was registered or provide the first information report (FIR) number. Details about the suspect's statement during questioning and his possible court appearance were also not immediately available. It was not clear whether the snake involved in the incident was venomous or non-venomous. Police reports and local media accounts also did not establish whether the woman sustained any physical injuries, was bitten by the snake or required medical attention. Lahore DIG Operations Faisal Kamran said the protection of personnel participating in the anti-polio campaign was a top priority for the police. He said security arrangements were being made to protect vaccination teams working in the field and that strict legal action would be taken against individuals found harassing polio workers or creating obstacles in the performance of their official responsibilities. The incident has once again highlighted security concerns surrounding frontline health workers, particularly women, who visit residential neighbourhoods as part of Pakistan's nationwide efforts to eradicate polio. Polio vaccination teams routinely go door-to-door to administer vaccine drops to children, often working in challenging conditions and interacting directly with families and residents. Health workers play a crucial role in reaching children who might otherwise miss vaccination opportunities. However, incidents of intimidation, harassment and resistance can undermine their efforts and disrupt public health activities. Pakistan remains one of the few countries where poliovirus transmission has not been interrupted. Repeated vaccination campaigns are considered essential to protecting children and preventing the spread of the highly infectious disease, which can cause permanent paralysis. The safety of vaccination teams is therefore an important concern for both health authorities and law enforcement agencies, as any disruption to field operations can affect efforts to reach every eligible child. While police have confirmed the arrest and registration of a case, the allegations against Mushtaq remain subject to investigation and judicial proceedings. He cannot be considered guilty unless the charges are established in court. Further details about the investigation, the suspect's position and any subsequent legal proceedings are expected to emerge as the case progresses.