Security Forces have eliminated seven terrorists belonging to the Indian-sponsored Fitna al-Khawarij during an intelligence-based operation in Hangu District, while Captain Hamza Akram, 27, embraced martyrdom during the intense exchange of fire, the Inter-Services Public Relations (ISPR) said.
According to ISPR, the operation was launched on reported intelligence regarding the presence of Khawarij affiliated with the Indian proxy Fitna al-Khawarij in Hangu District.
During the operation, troops effectively engaged the identified terrorist position and put the Khawarij under sustained pressure. In an attempt to evade the advancing security personnel, the terrorists took refuge inside a mosque, blatantly disregarding the sanctity of the place of worship.
The security forces continued the engagement, exercising the necessary caution in dealing with terrorists who had sought shelter inside the mosque. During the ensuing intense exchange of fire, seven terrorists affiliated with Indian-sponsored Fitna al-Khawarij were eliminated.
The eliminated terrorists were found in possession of weapons and ammunition, which were recovered by security forces following the operation. According to ISPR, the terrorists had remained actively involved in numerous terrorist activities targeting security forces and law enforcement agencies, besides attacks resulting in the loss of innocent civilian lives.
Captain Hamza Leads From the Front
During the fierce exchange of fire, Captain Hamza Akram, a 27-year-old officer from Narowal District, was leading his troops from the front while relentlessly pursuing the terrorists.
The young officer fought gallantly during the operation and embraced shahadat in the line of duty.
His sacrifice came as security forces pressed their assault against the terrorist group, reflecting the risks faced by personnel engaged in intelligence-based counterterrorism operations in difficult and volatile areas.
Following the engagement, security forces launched a sanitization operation in the surrounding area to locate and eliminate any other Indian-sponsored Khawarij who may still be present.
The latest operation comes as security forces and law enforcement agencies continue their counterterrorism campaign under the vision of Azm-e-Istehkam, approved by the Federal Apex Committee under the National Action Plan.
Security forces have reiterated that the campaign against foreign-sponsored and externally supported terrorism will continue at full pace, with intelligence-based operations being conducted to dismantle terrorist networks, eliminate their operatives and prevent attacks against civilians and security personnel.
The sacrifice of Captain Hamza Akram has further reinforced the resolve of Pakistan’s security forces to defend the country and pursue terrorist elements regardless of the terrain or circumstances.
