EAWALPINDI: Inter-Services Public Relations (ISPR) reported that two Pakistan Army personnel were martyred during an intelligence-based operation in Bannu targeting militants described as Indian-sponsored terrorists.
According to the military’s media wing, security forces were conducting an operation after receiving reports about the presence of militants, including a suicide bomber, in the area. During the mission, a vehicle-borne suicide attacker was intercepted by the leading contingent, preventing a potentially devastating attack on civilians and law enforcement personnel in Bannu city.
Following the interception, security forces identified militant hideouts. An intense exchange of fire ensued, resulting in the elimination of five terrorists. However, in a final act of desperation, the attackers rammed an explosives-laden vehicle into one of the security forces’ vehicles.
As a result, Lt Colonel Shahzada Gul Faraz, who was leading the operation from the front, embraced martyrdom along with Sepoy Karamat Shah.
ISPR stated that the militants, referred to as “Khwarij,” continue to carry out terrorist activities inside Pakistan using Afghan soil, even during the holy month of Ramadan. The statement criticized the Afghan Taliban regime for failing to prevent such cross-border activities.
The military emphasized that Pakistan will continue operations against those responsible, regardless of their location. It reaffirmed that the counter-terrorism campaign under the vision “Azm-e-Istehkam,” approved by the Federal Apex Committee under the National Action Plan, will proceed at full speed to eliminate foreign-sponsored terrorism. The armed forces reiterated their resolve to safeguard the country, stating that the sacrifices of soldiers strengthen their commitment to national security.
