Two Soldiers Martyred, Six Terrorists Killed in North Waziristan Operation
Islamabad: A major and a sepoy of the Pakistan Army were martyred in an intense gun battle with terrorists in North Waziristan’s Mir Ali area, the Inter-Services Public Relations (ISPR) reported on Thursday.
According to the military’s media wing, the clash occurred during an intelligence-based operation conducted by security forces on the night of January 29-30.
“During the operation, our troops effectively engaged the terrorist hideout, eliminating six terrorists,” the ISPR statement read.
The martyred personnel were identified as Major Hamza Israr, 29, a resident of Rawalpindi, who fearlessly led his troops from the front, and Sepoy Muhammad Naeem, 26, a resident of Naseerabad, who fought courageously and made the ultimate sacrifice.
Following the operation, a sanitisation process is underway to neutralise any remaining terrorist threats in the area. The ISPR reiterated the security forces’ commitment to eradicating terrorism, stating that such sacrifices further strengthen their resolve.
Meanwhile, President Asif Ali Zardari paid tribute to the security forces for their efforts in eliminating six terrorists. He also honoured the sacrifices of Major Israr and Sepoy Naeem, commending their bravery and patriotism.
“Security forces will continue their operations until terrorism is completely eradicated. Our commitment to defending the nation remains unwavering,” the president asserted.
Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif also lauded the security forces for their bravery in the battle and paid homage to the martyred soldiers.
PM Shehbaz offered prayers for the martyrs’ high ranks and expressed solidarity with their bereaved families.
“We will not allow the sacrifices of our nation’s heroes to be in vain. The nefarious intentions of anti-state elements will be thwarted,” he affirmed, adding that the government and security forces remain resolute in their mission to eliminate terrorism from the country.
