Pakistan’s Security Forces Conduct Successful Operation in Orakzai District
On October 9, a significant military operation was carried out in the Orakzai district of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, resulting in the deaths of eleven Pakistani security personnel and nineteen Indian-sponsored terrorists. The operation, described as an intelligence-based operation (IBO), targeted suspected terrorist groups linked to India.
The Inter-Services Public Relations (ISPR) released a statement detailing the events of the operation. According to the statement, security forces conducted the IBO after reports of the presence of Indian proxy terrorists in the region. During the engagement, the troops successfully eliminated 19 terrorists, showcasing their effectiveness in combat.
Among the fallen were high-ranking officers, including Lieutenant Colonel Junaid Tariq, who was leading his troops from the front. His second-in-command, Major Tayyab Rahat, also lost his life, along with nine other soldiers. The names of the deceased include:
- Naib Subedar Azam Gul (38 years old)
- Naik Adil Hussain (35 years old)
- Naik Gul Ameer (34 years old)
- Lance Naik Sher Khan (31 years old)
- Lance Naik Talish Faraz (32 years old)
- Lance Naik Irshad Hussain (32 years old)
- Sepoy Tufail Khan (28 years old)
- Sepoy Aqib Ali (23 years old)
- Sepoy Muhammad Zahid (24 years old)
The ISPR emphasized that a sanitisation operation was ongoing to ensure that no remaining Indian-sponsored terrorists were left in the area. The statement highlighted the determination of the security forces to eradicate the threat of Indian-backed terrorism from the country. It also noted that the sacrifices made by the brave soldiers would only strengthen their resolve.
Reactions from Political Leaders
Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif expressed his condolences over the loss of the soldiers and praised the security forces for their actions in eliminating the terrorists. In a statement issued by his office, he acknowledged the bravery of the security personnel and reaffirmed the government’s commitment to combating terrorism.
“The sacrifices of the fearless sons of security forces will never go in vain,” he stated. “We will crush the nefarious intentions of Indian-backed terrorists. We will not allow elements that harm Pakistan’s integrity to succeed,” he added. The Prime Minister reiterated his government’s determination to eliminate the menace of terrorism from the country.
Bilawal Bhutto-Zardari, the chairperson of the Pakistan People’s Party (PPP), also expressed grief over the martyrdom of the 11 security personnel. He paid tribute to the fallen soldiers, highlighting their sacrifice in the fight against terrorism.
Punjab Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz also commended the security forces for their successful operation in Orakzai. She extended her condolences to the families of Lt. Col. Junaid, Major Tayeb, and the nine soldiers who lost their lives during the engagement.
Ongoing Efforts to Combat Terrorism
The military continues to emphasize its commitment to maintaining national security and protecting the country from external threats. The operation in Orakzai is part of a broader strategy to neutralize terrorist activities and ensure stability in the region.
As the sanitisation efforts continue, the focus remains on identifying and eliminating any remaining threats. The bravery and dedication of the security forces are seen as critical in this ongoing battle against terrorism. Their sacrifices serve as a reminder of the challenges faced in maintaining peace and security in the region.
