Major martyred while leading IBO in Bajaur

Five terrorists killed in fierce gun fight Field Marshal pays tributes to Major Adeel

RAWALPINDI:

An army major was martyred while leading troops from the front during an intelligence-based operation (IBO) against terrorists in Bajaur district of Khyber-Pakhtunkhwa (K-P), the military said on Monday.

According to the Inter-Services Public Relations (ISPR), the IBO was carried out in the general area of Khar following reports of the presence of terrorists belonging to the Indian proxy Fitna al Khwarij – a term used for the outlawed Tehreek-e-Taliban Pakistan (TTP).

During the operation, intense exchange of fire took place, in which five terrorists were neutralised, according to an ISPR statement. The martyred officer was identified as Major Adeel Zaman, 36, a resident of Dera Ismail Khan district.

"On 29 December 2025, Security Forces conducted an intelligence based operation in general area Khar, Bajaur District, on reported presence of Khwarij belonging to Indian Proxy, Fitna al Khwarij. During the conduct of operation, due to effective engagement by own troops five Indian sponsored khwarij were sent to hell," the statement said.

According to the military's media wing, Major Adeel Zaman, "a brave officer who was leading his troops from the front, having fought gallantly, rendered the ultimate sacrifice and embraced Shahadat."

"Weapons and ammunition were also recovered from the killed khwarij, who remained actively involved in numerous terrorist activities against the Security Forces and Law Enforcement Agencies as well as killing of innocent civilians," it added.

Following the IBO, sanitisation operations were being conducted to eliminate any other Indian-sponsored Khwarij in the area. "Relentless Counter Terrorism campaign under vision 'Azm e Istehkam'… by Security Forces and Law Enforcement Agencies of Pakistan will continue at full pace to wipe out menace of foreign sponsored and supported terrorism from the country," the ISPR said.

The funeral prayers for Major Adeel Zaman Shaheed were offered at the Peshawar Garrison, attended by Field Marshal Syed Asim Munir, the interior minister, Peshawar Corps commander, military and civil officers, and members of the public.

Field Marshal Asim Munir paid rich tributes to the supreme sacrifice of Major Adeel Zaman Shaheed, highlighting that the martyrs of the Pakistan Army are the pride of the nation and their sacrifices will forever be remembered. He prayed for the elevation of the Shaheed's ranks in Jannah and for patience and strength for the family.

"Major Adeel Zaman Shaheed laid down his life in the line of duty while leading from the front. Pakistan Armed Forces remain resolute in their commitment to eliminate the menace of terrorism from the country, and such sacrifices further strengthen the nation's resolve," he said.

The Shaheed will be laid to rest with full military honours at his native town in Dera Ismail Khan. Later, Field Marshal Syed Asim Munir also visited CMH Peshawar to enquire after the health of officers and soldiers injured during the IBO and lauded their courage and steadfastness.

President Asif Ali Zardari and Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif lauded the security forces for their successful IBO that resulted in the elimination of five terrorists. Both leaders praised the professionalism and courage of the troops involved in the operation.

President Zardari extended his heartfelt condolences to the family of martyr Major Adeel Zaman. "The courage and great sacrifice of Major Adeel Zaman for the homeland are a source of pride for the entire nation," he said. Similarly, Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif also paid tributes to Major Adeel Zaman.

Both the president and the prime minister reaffirmed that anti-terrorism operations would continue with full force under the national action plan and Azm-e-Istehkam vision. They reaffirmed the nation's support for the security forces in the ongoing fight against terrorism.

"Security forces are achieving successes against terrorism under Operation Azm-e-Istehkam. The entire nation stands with Pakistan's forces in this war. We will cleanse the country of all forms of terrorism," said Prime Minister Shehbaz.

(WITH INPUT FROM APP)