Saifullah Ansar
ISLAMABAD, OCT 8 (DNA): Prime Minister Muhammad Shehbaz Sharif on Wednesday paid tribute to Pakistan’s security forces after an intelligence-based operation in Orakzai district eliminated 19 terrorists of the group Fitnah al-Khawarij, whom the military described as being backed by Indian elements. The operation, carried out late on the night of October 7–8, also cost the lives of several Pakistani soldiers.
In his message, the prime minister expressed deep sorrow at the martyrdom of officers and soldiers who fell during the operation, and singled out Lieutenant Colonel Junaid Arif and Major Tayyab Rahat among those who embraced shahadat while leading their men from the front. He offered prayers for the departed and urged the nation to stand with the bereaved families, asking for patience and resilience for the next of kin.
Prime Minister Shehbaz also lauded the “fearless sons of the security forces” for their courage and sacrifice, saying their sacrifices would not be wasted and vowing that the government would foil any designs aimed at undermining Pakistan’s territorial integrity. He reiterated that the government remains firmly committed to uprooting the menace of terrorism from the country.
Security forces launched follow-up clearance and search operations in the area after the encounter; official accounts said the slain militants included local and cross-border cadres linked to the group. Further details on casualties and any arrests remained under verification.
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