Security Forces Thwart Major Terrorist Attack on Educational Institution
In a display of exceptional bravery and professionalism, Pakistani security forces successfully foiled a terrorist attack on Cadet College Wana in South Waziristan District on Monday. According to an ISPR statement, khwarij terrorists belonging to Indian proxy group Fitna al Khwarij attempted to breach the college perimeter but were met with swift and resolute response from alert troops.
Details of the Attack and Security Response
The assailants initiated their assault by attempting to breach the college's security perimeter. When their initial attempts failed, the attackers resorted to desperate measures, ramming an explosive-laden vehicle into the main gate, causing significant structural damage. The timely and courageous response by security forces prevented what could have been a major tragedy.
During the engagement, security forces demonstrated remarkable precision and eliminated two terrorists belonging to the Indian proxy group. However, three additional attackers managed to enter the college premises and were subsequently cornered in the administrative block, where clearance operations continued to neutralize the remaining threat.
Connections to Regional Terrorism and Historical Context
The ISPR statement highlighted disturbing connections, revealing that the terrorists were in direct communication with their handlers in Afghanistan during the attack. This development directly contradicts assertions made by the Afghan Taliban regime about the absence of terrorist groups on their soil.
Drawing parallels to previous atrocities, the military spokesperson noted that this attack represented another attempt to replicate the horrific 2014 Army Public School Peshawar attack that claimed 147 lives, including 132 schoolchildren. The latest assault specifically targeted educational institutions in tribal areas where young people are pursuing quality education to build better futures for themselves and their communities.
National Condemnation and Counter-Terrorism Resolve
The attack drew strong condemnation from the highest levels of Pakistani leadership. President Asif Ali Zardari, Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif, and Interior Minister Mohsin Naqvi unanimously praised the security forces' timely response and reiterated the nation's determination to eradicate terrorism.
Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif emphasized that the cowardly enemy had failed in its objectives and affirmed that the unwavering resolve of security forces would continue to thwart terrorist designs. The Interior Minister highlighted the professionalism and courage displayed by security personnel in preventing a major catastrophe.
Expanded Counter-Terrorism Operations
In related counter-terrorism efforts, security forces conducted successful operations in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa Province on November 8-9, eliminating 20 additional terrorists from the same Indian proxy network. These operations included intelligence-based missions in Shawal, North Waziristan District, where eight terrorists were neutralized, and in Dara Adam Khel District, where twelve more were eliminated after intense fire exchanges.
The ISPR reaffirmed Pakistan's commitment to continue its relentless Counter Terrorism campaign under "Azm-e-Istehkam" as approved by the Federal Apex Committee on National Action Plan. Security forces and law enforcement agencies remain determined to completely eradicate the menace of foreign-sponsored terrorism from the country.
Pakistan has clearly stated it reserves the right to respond against terrorists and their leadership present in Afghanistan, signaling a firm stance against cross-border terrorist threats targeting Pakistani educational institutions and national security.