Major martyred in Zhob operation laid to rest

Funeral prayer held at Zhob Cantt; officer to be laid to rest in hometown of Mianwali with full military honours: ISPR

The funeral prayer of Major Babar Niazi, army officer martyred in the Zhob operation, was offered at Zhob Cantt, stated the Inter-Services Public Relations (ISPR) on Wednesday.

In a statement, the country's armed forces assured of standing by the nation and being committed to defeating terrorists' attempts to sabotage the peace and stability of the country.

"The sacrifices of our brave sons strengthen our resolve to fight against the menace of terrorism.  The war against terrorism will be fought till the scourge is uprooted from the motherland," the ISPR maintained.

Major Babar Niazi laid down his life while leading an intelligence-based operation in the Sambaza area of Balochistan’s Zhob district that eliminated three terrorists, the army’s media wing confirmed on Tuesday.

According to a statement issued by the ISPR, the security forces conducted the operation in the general area of Sambaza, Zhob District. “The engagement with the terrorists was intense, leading to the successful elimination of the threat.”

The statement added that 36-year-old Major Niazi, a resident of Mianwali, fought gallantly while leading his troops from the front, paid the ultimate sacrifice, and embraced martyrdom during an intense exchange of fire.

Read Senior army commanders pay tribute to DI Khan martyrs

At the time of his martyrdom, Major Niazi was performing his duties in Frontier Corps Balochistan North. He has left behind a widow, a three-year-old son, and parents.

Senior military and civilian officers attended the funeral prayer. A large number of people and civil administration officers also paid their respects.

The army officer will be laid to rest with full military honors in his hometown.

President Zardari pays tribute

President Zardari commended the security forces for their successful operation in the Sambaza area of Zhob.

The president specifically honoured Major Niazi for his bravery, his services to the nation, and his spirit of patriotism. He highlighted the professional capabilities of the Pakistan Army and reiterated the commitment to completely eradicating terrorism from the country.

In his message, the president expressed his condolences to the martyr's family and prayed for them to have the patience and strength to bear the loss.

"The sacrifices of our brave sons strengthen our resolve to fight against the scourge of terrorism," the president stated, affirming that the war against terrorism will continue until this menace is eradicated from the motherland.