RAWALPINDI: At least 30 terrorists linked to the Fitna al-Khawarij network were eliminated in an operation carried out by Pakistan’s security forces in Orakzai district, security sources confirmed on Thursday.
The slain militants were involved in the October 7–8 Orakzai attack that martyred Lt Col Junaid Tariq, Major Tayyab Rahat, and nine other soldiers.
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According to a statement from the Inter-Services Public Relations (ISPR), the terrorists belonged to an Indian-sponsored proxy network, and their elimination dealt a major blow to the group’s operational capabilities. “The enemy suffered heavy losses, and their network was significantly disrupted in the region,” ISPR said, adding that the operation was based on credible intelligence reports.
During the intense firefight, Lt Col Junaid Tariq (39, Rawalpindi) and his Second-in-Command Major Tayyab Rahat (33, Rawalpindi) embraced martyrdom while leading their troops from the front.
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ISPR praised both officers for their exceptional bravery and leadership, stating that they continued to command their men until their last breath.
The nine other soldiers who laid down their lives for the motherland include:
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Naib Subedar Azam Gul (38, Khyber)
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Naik Adil Hussain (35, Kurram)
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Naik Gul Ameer (34, Tank)
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Lance Naik Sher Khan (31, Mardan)
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Lance Naik Talish Faraz (32, Mansehra)
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Lance Naik Irshad Hussain (32, Kurram)
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Sepoy Tufail Khan (28, Malakand)
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Sepoy Aqib Ali (23, Swabi)
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Sepoy Muhammad Zahid (24, Tank)
Security officials reaffirmed the armed forces’ unwavering resolve to eliminate terrorism from every corner of Pakistan, vowing that the sacrifices of the martyrs would not go in vain.