6 Soldiers Martyred, 22 Terrorists Eliminated in KP Operations: ISPR
In a series of intense counterterrorism operations across Khyber Pakhtunkhwa (KP), six soldiers of the Pakistan Army embraced martyrdom, while 22 terrorists were eliminated, according to an official statement released by the Inter-Services Public Relations (ISPR) on Sunday.
The operations, conducted as part of the ongoing effort to eradicate militancy from the region, were carried out in several districts of KP, including North Waziristan, South Waziristan, and Khyber District. The ISPR emphasized the resolve of the armed forces to root out terrorism and ensure peace and stability in the region.
The Sacrifice of the Brave
The martyred soldiers, whose names were released by the ISPR, hailed from various parts of Pakistan. They were honored for their bravery and commitment to the nation. The ISPR paid tribute to their ultimate sacrifice, stating that their valor would forever be remembered as a cornerstone in the fight against terrorism.
The martyrs include:
Sepoy Asim Khan, 25, from Mardan
Naib Subedar Latif, 39, from Vehari
Lance Havaldar Rizwan, 30, from Dera Ghazi Khan
Sepoy Khalid Hussain, 24, from Mansehra
Sepoy Mohammad Ali, 22, from Quetta
Havaldar Umar Farooq, 33, from Sialkot
Their families, despite their grief, expressed pride in their loved ones' sacrifice for the country.
Fierce Clashes with Terrorists
The ISPR detailed the operations, stating that the Pakistan Army, acting on intelligence reports, launched coordinated offensives against terrorist hideouts in the tribal belt. These areas have been known for harboring militants linked to banned organizations.
According to the ISPR, the operations were marked by fierce gun battles as the terrorists resisted security forces. However, the military's superior strategy and firepower led to the elimination of 22 militants. Among the dead were key commanders involved in recent attacks on security forces and civilians.
A significant cache of weapons, ammunition, and explosives was also recovered during the raids, further crippling the operational capabilities of the militants.
The Cost of Peace
The ISPR highlighted the immense challenges faced in combating terrorism in the region. The sacrifices of soldiers and the relentless efforts of security forces underscore the heavy price paid to ensure peace and stability in Pakistan.
In recent months, there has been a resurgence of terrorist activity in parts of KP and Balochistan. This has necessitated increased vigilance and proactive measures by law enforcement agencies and the military. The ISPR reiterated that every drop of blood shed by the nation’s heroes strengthens Pakistan’s resolve to eliminate terrorism.
Nation Stands United
As news of the operations spread, political leaders and citizens across the country expressed solidarity with the armed forces and the families of the martyrs. Prime Minister Anwar-ul-Haq Kakar praised the soldiers' bravery and reaffirmed the government’s commitment to supporting counterterrorism efforts.
“Our soldiers are the pride of the nation. Their sacrifices will not go in vain. We are determined to bring peace to every corner of Pakistan,” said the Prime Minister.
The Chief of Army Staff (COAS), General Syed Asim Munir, also visited the bereaved families and assured them of the army’s unwavering dedication to safeguarding the nation. He emphasized that the military will continue its operations until the last terrorist is eliminated.
A Call for Vigilance
The ISPR urged citizens to remain vigilant and report any suspicious activities to the authorities. Public cooperation, it said, is crucial in the fight against terrorism.
With the elimination of these 22 terrorists, the military has dealt a significant blow to the militant networks operating in KP. However, the battle against extremism remains far from over.
As Pakistan mourns the loss of its brave soldiers, it also stands resilient, ready to face any challenge in the pursuit of peace.