A Pakistani peacekeeper Havildar Babar Siddique embraced martyrdom in the line of duty on UN Peace Keeping Mission in Democratic Republic of Congo, said a statement issued by Inter Services Public Relations (ISPR) Saturday.

According to ISPR statement, on 30 September 22, six armed assailants from Bunyamalange Armed Group approached Permanent Operation Base (POB) Minibwe, Congo in disguise to surrender their weapons as part of UN initiative.

Havildar Babar Siddique was performing the duties of Guard Commander at entry point for registering proclaimed surrenders. The Ieading assailant started discriminate firing on check post resultantly, Havildar Babar received a gunshot on his head. Pakistan Army troops responded immediately. Havildar Babar was evacuated to the nearest Pakistan Army medical Aid Post but he could not survive.

Havildar Babar Siddique was resident of Shakargarh. He was 35 years old and is survived by wife, a son and a daughter

ISPR said Pakistan has always played a pivotal role as responsible member of the international community to help realize ideals of global peace and security through active support in various UN Peacekeeping missions. Our

“Peacekeepers have always distinguished themselves in executing challenging peacekeeping tasks in conflict torn areas through devotion and, if necessary, rendering supreme sacrifices,” the statement added.

So far 171 Pakistan peacekeepers have laid down their lives during various UN missions for international peace and security.