A terrorist attack on a joint security checkpost in Tank district, Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, has left 15 people martyred, including 14 security personnel and one government official, the Inter Services Public Relations (ISPR) confirmed. The attack took place during the night of July 23 and 24, when militants attempted to overrun the security post.
According to the ISPR, security forces acted swiftly and successfully foiled the militants’ attempt to breach the checkpost. As the attackers retreated, troops pursued them and killed 12 militants belonging to the India backed Fitna al Khawarij during a counter operation.
After failing to seize the checkpost, the attackers rammed an explosive laden vehicle into the perimeter wall, triggering a massive explosion that caused extensive damage to the security installation. The powerful blast resulted in the martyrdom of 12 soldiers, two police officials, and one employee from the former forest department.
The military’s media wing stated that a sanitisation operation is ongoing to clear the surrounding area and ensure that no militants remain. It also reaffirmed that security forces and law enforcement agencies will continue operations under the Azm e Istehkam campaign to eliminate terrorism and maintain national security.
President Asif Ali Zardari and Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif strongly condemned the attack and paid tribute to the martyred personnel. Both leaders praised the courage and professionalism of the security forces for successfully preventing the militants from capturing the checkpost and eliminating 12 attackers. They also offered prayers for the departed souls and expressed sympathy with the bereaved families.
Pakistan has experienced a rise in terrorist attacks, particularly in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa and Balochistan, over the past few years. Authorities have reiterated their commitment to continuing intelligence based operations and strengthening security measures across the country. Officials stressed that the sacrifices of the martyrs would further reinforce Pakistan’s determination to defeat terrorism and ensure lasting peace for its people.
