Major, Havildar martyred in Harnai operation

RAWALPINDI: A young officer of Pakistan Army and a solider were martyred while three terrorists were killed in an engagement in Harnai district of Balochistan on Thursday.

On reported presence of terrorists, planning to target innocent civilians in Harnai District, security forces under Major Muhammad Haseeb were immediately mobilised to sensitise the area.

Troops effectively engaged the terrorists’ location and resultantly three terrorists were sent to hell, said the Inter-Services Public Relations (ISPR) in a statement.

However, during the operation, an improvised explosive device exploded on the leading vehicle of security forces, resultantly, Major Muhammad Haseeb (age 28, resident of District Rawalpindi), a brave officer, who was leading his troops from the front, along with Havildar Ahmed Noor (age 38, resident of District Barkhan), having fought gallantly, made the ultimate sacrifice and embraced Shahadat.

Security forces of Pakistan, in step with the nation, remain determined to thwart attempts at sabotaging peace, stability and progress of Balochistan, and such sacrifices of our brave soldiers further strengthen our resolve, the ISPR said.

Later, the funeral prayer for Major Muhammad Haseeb Shaheed was held at Chaklala Garrison, Rawalpindi.

Chief of Army Staff (COAS) General Syed Asim Munir, Federal Minister Ahsan Iqbal along with senior military and civil officials, officers, soldiers and family members of the Shaheed, attended the ceremony.

The COAS expressed that the sacrifice made by the valiant officers and soldiers exemplify the unwavering dedication towards defending the country against the menace of terrorism. He highlighted that the nation stands in solidarity with the Armed Forces and Law Enforcement Agencies in the fight against Fitna al Khawarij and all those who hold their reins.

Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif and National Assembly Speaker Sardar Ayaz have paid homage to Major Haseeb Shaheed and Havildar Noor Ahmed for their sacrifices. The prime minister prayed to Almighty Allah for high places for Shaheeds in Jannah and expressed condolences with bereaved families. He said that sacrifices of Shaheed officers and soldiers will not go to waste. “We are committed to root out terrorism in the country,” he said.