Army captain martyred, seven terrorists killed in Hangu IBO: ISPR

At least seven terrorists, belonging to Indian-sponsored Fitna Al Khwarij, have been killed by security forces during an intelligence based operation in Hangu District, the military’s media wing said on Saturday.

The Inter Services Public Relations (ISPR) said during the operation, the troops effectively engaged khwarij location. In desperation, the terrorists took refuge inside a mosque, blatantly disregarding the sanctity of the place of worship.

During the intense fire exchange, Captain Hamza Akram, a brave officer, who was leading his troops from front and relentlessly pursuing the Khwarij, fought gallantly, paid the ultimate sacrifice and embraced shahadat, the military stated.

Weapons and ammunition were also recovered from the killed khwarij, who remained actively involved in numerous terrorist activities against the security forces and law enforcement agencies as well as killing of innocent civilians, the ISPR said.

“Sanitisation operation is being conducted to eliminate any other Indian sponsored Kharji in the area,” it added.

Meanwhile, President Asif Ali Zardari paid tribute to Captain Hamza Akram for embracing martyrdom while bravely confronting terrorists during an operation to eliminate them in Hangu.

“The motherland pays rich tribute to the great sacrifice of its brave son, who laid down his life to thwart the nefarious designs of the India-backed Fitna al-Khawarij, enemies of national peace and security,” the president said.

“The entire nation is indebted to these brave sons for their everlasting sacrifices for the homeland,” he maintained.

Zardari prayed for patience and fortitude for the family of Shaheed Captain Hamza.

In a separate statement, Prime Minister Muhammad Shehbaz Sharif expressed grief over the martyrdom of Captain Hamza.

The prime minister also paid tribute to the bravery, courage and devotion to duty of Captain Hamza Akram Shaheed, PM Office Media Wing said in a press release.

He lauded the security forces as well for eliminating seven Khwarij terrorists, operating under the Indian patronage, during Hangu operation.

“Captain Hamza Akram Shaheed embraced martyrdom while bravely confronting the terrorists. The nation will never forget the sacrifices of its brave sons,” the press release, quoted the prime minister, as saying.

He prayed to Allah Almighty to elevate the ranks of the martyr in Jannah and grant patience and fortitude to his bereaved family.

The prime minister reiterated that operations against Fitna al-Khwarij would continue till complete elimination of terrorism.

“The sacrifices rendered by our brave armed forces and law-enforcement agencies for the defence, peace and security of the country and nation will not go in vain,” he added.