RAWALPINDI: A 19-year-old army cadet was martyred during a tragic attack by armed terrorists on a mosque in Lakki Marwat district, Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, on Friday evening.
According to a press release from the Inter-Services Public Relations (ISPR), Cadet Arif Ullah was offering prayers when the assault occurred. “As soon as the Khawarij opened fire, he bravely responded and engaged with the attackers,” the statement noted. “Tragically, Gentleman Cadet Arif Ullah embraced Shahadat, sacrificing his life to protect many innocent worshippers.”
Arif, who was undergoing training at Kakul, had returned to his hometown on leave. The ISPR condemned the attack, describing it as a heinous act targeting worshippers during prayer, highlighting the true nature of these Khawarij. “The courageous actions of this young cadet exemplify the spirit of sacrifice and dedication that our security forces uphold in the fight against terrorism. Such sacrifices only strengthen our resolve,” the statement concluded.
President Asif Ali Zardari, Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif, and Federal Interior Minister Mohsin Naqvi all paid tribute to Cadet Arif, praising his bravery in thwarting the cowardly assault on innocent worshippers. In their statements, they emphasized that the cadet’s selflessness and courage in the face of danger serve as an inspiring example for the nation.
Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif noted, “The spirit of patriotism and loyalty to the homeland exhibited by the Pakistan Army is unparalleled. Terrorists should be acutely aware of the brave young men they are challenging.”
President Zardari remarked that the dedication of the martyred cadet serves as a guiding light for the youth, affirming that the sacrifices of martyrs and their families are a source of pride for the entire nation. “The Pakistani nation will never forget the sacrifices of its martyrs,” he stated.
Interior Minister Mohsin Naqvi reiterated the commitment to combat terrorism, assuring that the nation stands resolutely with the armed forces in this ongoing struggle. He expressed confidence that with brave individuals like Cadet Arif Ullah Shaheed, terrorists will never succeed in their malicious aims to sow chaos in the homeland. He prayed for the martyr’s elevation in Jannah and for strength for his bereaved family to endure their loss.
