ISLAMABAD: Captain Hamza Akram embraced martyrdom on Friday while leading troops against terrorists in Hangu district in northwestern Pakistan, the military’s media wing announced Saturday.
In an official statement, the Inter-Services Public Relations (ISPR) reported that security forces conducted an intelligence-based operation against members of Fitna al-Khwarij, an official term for Tehreek-i-Taliban Pakistan, terrorist group backed by India.
Seven terrorists were killed in the operation in Hangu District, located in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa province. During the firefight, the terrorists took shelter inside a mosque, as per ISPR.
A resident of Narowal district in Punjab province, Captain Hamza Akram was martyred while leading troops in pursuit of the terrorists.
"Captain Hamza Akram fought gallantly and paid the ultimate sacrifice," the ISPR said.
Security forces recovered weapons and ammunition from the killed terrorists.
The operation was conducted under Azm-e-Istehkam, Pakistan’s national counterterrorism campaign, with further operations continuing in the area.
President honors martyred captain
Pakistan President Asif Ali Zardari paid tributes to Captain Akram and offered condolences to his family.
In a statement released on X, President Zardari said the country honored his sacrifice in fighting the Indian-backed Fitna Al Khwarij, calling them a threat to national peace and security.
Prime Minister pays tribute
Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif also issued a statement Saturday expressing grief over the 27-year-old captain's death.
"The nation will never forget the sacrifices of its brave sons," PM Sharif said, as per the Prime Minister’s Office.
The prime minister also praised security forces for killing the terrorists. He said operations against Fitna Al Khwarij would continue until terrorism was eradicated from the country.
