Security forces rescue all students, staff after Wana Cadet College attack

Security forces successfully rescued all students and staff from Cadet College Wana in South Waziristan following a terrorist attack carried out by Afghan militants, Aaj News reported on Tuesday.

According to security sources, the operation to neutralise the remaining militants is ongoing. The attackers have been confined to a specific building located at a safe distance from the cadet residences, while security forces have cordoned off the surrounding area.

Approximately 650 individuals, including 525 cadets, were present at the institution when the assault occurred. Officials said the operation was conducted with extreme caution to ensure the safety of all cadets and staff.

Defense Minister Khawaja Asif confirmed the same in a tweet.

Latest video footage from the college premises showed security personnel escorting rescued cadets to safety. Students praised the swift and courageous response of the Pakistan Army and other security agencies, saying the attack was effectively foiled.

Attack on Cadet College Wana foiled; two terrorists killed: ISPR

One cadet, a Grade 12 student from Waziristan, said the Pakistan Army had established the college to promote education, peace, and development in the region. “The cowardly terrorists always wanted to deprive Waziristan’s children of education, but they have failed once again and will always fail,” he said.

Meanwhile, CCTV footage from the college’s main gate showed the moment militants rammed an explosives-laden vehicle into the entrance, destroying it and damaging nearby structures. Two attackers were killed instantly by prompt action from security personnel.

Forensic analysis of a mobile phone recovered from one of the slain militants revealed video evidence showing the terrorists inside the college and in contact with their handlers in Afghanistan, the sources added.