In a tragic escalation of violence, 16 brave soldiers of Pakistan’s security forces embraced martyrdom, while eight militants were neutralized during a fierce exchange of fire in South Waziristan’s Makeen district, according to a statement by the Inter-Services Public Relations (ISPR).

According to the military’s media wing, the confrontation occurred during the night of December 20-21, when a group of militants attempted to attack a security checkpoint.

The ISPR revealed that the soldiers effectively thwarted the attempt, successfully eliminating eight militants. Despite their heroic efforts, 16 soldiers lost their lives in the line of duty.

While reiterating Pakistan’s security forces commitment to eradicate the terrorism, the ISPR statement emphasized that a sanitization operation is currently underway in the area, with a firm resolve to bring the perpetrators to justice.

Prime Minister Muhammad Shehbaz Sharif condemned the attack and paid tribute to the martyred soldiers.

Extending his condolences to their families, the Prime Minister lauded the efforts of the security forces in neutralizing the militants and reaffirmed the nation’s commitment to eliminating terrorism.

“Our security forces are a steadfast shield against terrorists, ensuring the safety of our nation. The entire country salutes the martyrs and remains resolute in the fight against terrorism,” the Prime Minister stated.

Interior Minister Mohsin Naqvi also expressed his heartfelt condolences to the families of the martyrs, calling their sacrifice unparalleled.

“These brave sons of the soil gave their lives for peace in the country and are our nation’s heroes. Their sacrifices will forever be remembered,” he said, pledging unwavering support to the families of the fallen soldiers.

Details of the Martyrs

The ISPR shared the profiles of the 16 martyrs, all of whom hailed from different regions of Pakistan and had dedicated several years to serving in the armed forces:

Lance Naik Liaqat Ali (30, District Kurram): Served for 11 years.

Lance Naik Muhammad Ishaq (31, District Karak): Served for 9 years.

Havaldar Ayub Khan (38, District Attock): Served for 15 years.

Havaldar Umar Hayat (40, District Kohat): Served for 17 years.

Sepoy Mehboob Rehman (26, District Tank): Served for 8 years.

Havaldar Muhammad Hayat (37, District Bannu): Served for 17 years.

Lance Naik Sher Muhammad (26, District Malakand): Served for 7 years.

Sepoy Ehsan-ul-Haq (22, District Lower Dir): Served for 4 years.

Sepoy Junaid (25, District Khyber): Served for 3 years.

Lance Naik Hamid Ali (29, District Swabi): Served for 8 years.

Sepoy Kaleemullah (26, District Lakki Marwat): Served for 3 years.

Havaldar Tahir Mahmood (41, District Kohat): Served for 18 years.

Lance Naik Masoor Shaheen (29, District Kohat): Served for 7 years.

Sepoy Faiz Muhammad (22, District Mansehra): Served for 4 years.

Sepoy Tayyab Ali (23, District Haripur): Joined the army a year ago.

Sepoy Junaid (26, District Shangla): Served for 4 years.