16 soldiers martyred, 8 Khawarij killed in South Waziristan attack: ISPR

RAWALPINDI: Sixteen soldiers martyred and eight terrorists killed in an attack launched by Fitnat-ul-Khawarij militants on a security check post in South Waziristan, Inter-Services Public Relations (ISPR) said on Saturday.

The military’s media wing said: “On night 20-21 December 2024, a group of Khwarij attempted to attack a security forces check post in general area Makeen, South Waziristan district.”

ISPR further said that “the attempt was effectively thwarted by own troops and in ensuing fire exchange, eight khwarij were sent to hell. However, during intense fire exchange, Sixteen brave sons of soil, having fought gallantly embraced Shahadat.”

According to ISPR, sanitization operation is being conducted in the area and the perpetrators of the heinous act will be brought to justice. “Security forces of Pakistan are determined to eliminate the menace of terrorism and such sacrifices of our brave men further strengthen our resolve.”

Also Read: FO says US’ threat perception from Pakistani missile ‘unfounded’

Interior Minister Mohsin Naqvi strongly condemned the attack, expressing profound grief over the loss of 16 soldiers who embraced martyrdom during the incident.

In a statement issued on Saturday, the minister paid tribute to the soldiers martyred in the attack, hailing their courage and sacrifice in the line of duty. “Our brave heroes attained the highest honor of martyrdom by sending eight miscreants to their doom,” Naqvi said.

He extended heartfelt condolences to the families of the martyrs, affirming the government’s unwavering support. “The valiant sons of the soil sacrificed their lives for the peace of our homeland. They are the nation’s true heroes,” Naqvi said, adding that the sacrifices of the country’s security personnel will be remembered for eternity.

Earlier on Saturday, four terrorists were killed when an infiltration attempt along the Pakistan-Afghanistan border in Rajgal, Khyber district, was successfully foiled by security forces.

According to ISPR, army troops detected the movement of the group and thwarted their infiltration attempt. Four terrorists were killed during the operation.

Tragically, Sepoy Amir Sohail Afridi, a brave son of the soil from Khyber district, embraced martyrdom after valiantly fighting during the intense exchange of fire.

The ISPR emphasized that Pakistan has consistently urged the Interim Afghan Government to ensure effective border management on their side and prevent the use of Afghan territory by Khwarij for acts of terrorism against Pakistan.