In a tragic yet heroic encounter, two army officers and nine soldiers embraced martyrdom during an intelligence-based operation in Orakzai district, Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, against India-backed terrorists, the military’s media wing (ISPR) confirmed on Wednesday.

According to the Inter-Services Public Relations (ISPR), security forces launched a late-night operation on October 7–8 to neutralize militants associated with the Indian proxy group, Fitna al-Khwarij.

The mission resulted in the elimination of 19 terrorists following a fierce exchange of fire.

Leading from the front, Lt Col Junaid Arif (39) and Maj Tayyab Rahat (33) from Rawalpindi displayed exemplary courage and selflessness, laying down their lives alongside nine of their brave comrades.

Their sacrifice stands as a profound testament to the spirit of duty and unwavering commitment that defines Pakistan’s armed forces.

The fallen heroes include: Naib Subedar Azam Gul, Naik Adil Hussain, Naik Gul Ameer, Lance Naik Sher Khan, Lance Naik Talish Faraz, Lance Naik Irshad Hussain, Sepoy Tufail Khan, Sepoy Aqib Ali, and Sepoy Muhammad Zahid — each a symbol of devotion, valor, and love for the motherland.

A sanitization operation continues to ensure the complete elimination of remaining threats in the area.

The ISPR reaffirmed that such noble sacrifices only deepen the nation’s resolve to root out terrorism and safeguard peace across Pakistan.

These heroes’ courage and selflessness will forever remain etched in the nation’s heart — a reminder that freedom and peace are built upon the ultimate sacrifice of those who stand guard in the face of danger.