Major among three soldiers martyred in Bannu IBO

A major ranked officer was among three soldiers Wednesday martyred when security forces conducted an intelligence-based operation in the general area Bakka Khel, Bannu District on the reported presence of terrorists, said a statement issued by Inter-Services Public Relations (ISPR).

“During the conduct of the operation, own troops effectively engaged khwarij's location, as a result of which eight khwarij were sent to hell, while seven khwarij got injured,” added the statement.

According to ISPR, during intense exchange of fire, 31-year-old Major Atif Khalil, a resident of District Sudhanuti, AJ&K, a brave officer, who was leading his troops from the front, fought gallantly and embraced Shahadat along with his two men.

The two soldiers who paid the ultimate sacrifice include Naik Azad Ullah and Lance Naik Ghazanfar Abbas.

A sanitization operation is being carried out to eliminate any other Kharji found in the area, as the security forces of Pakistan are determined to wipe out the menace of terrorism and such sacrifices of our brave soldiers further strengthen our resolve.

Thirty-one-year-old Major Atif Khalil Shaheed was from Azad Kashmir and performed the sacred duty of defending the country for more than 8 years. He is survived by his parents, siblings, wife and a daughter.

Thirty-six-year-old Naik Azadullah Shaheed belonged to the Karak district of KP and was in the armed forces for 15 years. He is survived by his wife, two sons and a daughter.

Thirty-five-year-old Lance Naik Ghazanfar Abbas Shaheed belonged to the Layyah district of Punjab and performed the duty of defending the motherland for 14 years. He is survived by his wife, daughter and a son.

Homage to heroes

Federal Interior Minister Mohsin Naqvi praised the security forces for killing eight terrorists in the Bannu operation.

He paid tribute to Major Atif, Naik Azadullah and Lance Naik Gazanfar who embraced martyrdom in anti-terrorist combat.

He said the nation stands by the families of martyrs and these sacrifices will be remembered forever.

He said Major Atif Khalil and the brave security men were martyred while bravely fighting the terrorists.

The minister added: “The nation salutes the brave Major Atif Khalil and the two security personnel.”

"The nation is united and stands with the security forces for the elimination of the terrorists.”