Khyber Pakhtunkhwa: A 19-year-old army cadet, Arif Ullah, was martyred on Friday when armed assailants attacked a mosque during evening prayers in the Lakki Marwat district, the Inter-Services Public Relations (ISPR) reported. The young cadet, who was undergoing training at the Pakistan Military Academy (PMA) in Kakul, Abbottabad, was on leave to visit his hometown when the incident occurred.
Arif Ullah’s Brave Response
According to the ISPR, Cadet Arif Ullah was in the mosque when the attackers began firing. He immediately responded, confronting the attackers to protect fellow worshippers. “As soon as the Khawarij [extremists] started firing, he immediately responded and fought them courageously,” the ISPR release stated.
In his brave efforts to safeguard others, Cadet Arif Ullah was martyred. The ISPR emphasized that his sacrifice prevented further harm to worshippers inside the mosque.
Attack Reflects Extremist Ideology
The ISPR condemned the attack as a “heinous and cowardly act,” noting that targeting worshippers during prayers reveals the true ideology of extremist groups. “Such actions reflect the true ideology of these Khawarij,” read the statement. Pakistan recently adopted the term “Khawarij” to describe groups like the banned Tehreek-i-Taliban Pakistan (TTP), labeling them as “outcasts” who reject mainstream principles.
Earlier this year, the government formally designated the TTP as “Fitna al Khawarij,” and directed all institutions to use this term for those involved in such acts against Pakistan.
Security Operations Continue in the Region
This incident comes amid increased activity in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa (KP) and Balochistan. A day prior, security forces conducted an intelligence-based operation in Bajaur district, where they located a high-value target among a group reported to be present in the area.
Surge in Activity Against Security Personnel
Incidents targeting security forces and law enforcement have escalated recently, especially in KP and Balochistan. The trend follows the TTP’s decision to end a ceasefire agreement with the government in 2022, subsequently declaring intentions to target security forces.
Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif expressed his condolences on X (formerly Twitter), honoring Cadet Arif Ullah’s sacrifice as a symbol of the armed forces’ patriotism and courage. “Gentleman Cadet Arif Ullah of Pakistan Military Academy Kakul became a martyr by bravely confronting attackers on innocent worshippers,” the Prime Minister wrote. “His bravery and sacrifice uplift the pride of the nation.”
The Information Adviser for the KP government, Barrister Saif, also condemned the attack, describing it as a “cowardly act” in a statement and praised the cadet’s valor in protecting innocent lives. “Shaheed Arif Ullah bravely confronted the attackers, saving lives,” he stated. Barrister Saif expressed solidarity with Arif Ullah’s family and assured the government’s support.
A Legacy of Sacrifice
The ISPR honored Cadet Arif Ullah’s bravery, emphasizing that his sacrifice represents the commitment of Pakistan’s security forces to maintain peace and eradicate extremist threats.
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