Islamabad: President Asif Ali Zardari and Prime Minister Muhammad Shehbaz Sharif have paid tribute to Cadet Arif Ullah of the Pakistan Military Academy Kakul, who lost his life during a terrorist attack on a mosque in Lakki Marwat. Cadet Ullah, who was on leave and attending prayers at his hometown mosque, engaged the attackers to protect fellow worshippers before embracing martyrdom.

According to Ministry of Information and Broadcasting, President Zardari condemned the mosque attack, describing it as an un-Islamic act against places of worship. In his statement, he expressed admiration for Cadet Ullah’s sacrifice and offered prayers for the martyr’s spiritual elevation and comfort for his family.

Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif, in his own statement, praised Cadet Ullah’s courage, describing him as a symbol of valor and dedication to Pakistan. He stated that Ullah, although an under-training cadet, could not bear to see civilians harmed by terrorism. The Prime Minister highlighted that such sacrifices by Pakistan’s armed forces personnel reflect a spirit of patriotism unmatched worldwide. He reiterated the nation’s collective resolve to continue its battle against terrorism, affirming that Pakistan’s armed forces have the nation’s unwavering support in this effort.

The Inter-Services Public Relations (ISPR) detailed the incident, noting that Cadet Ullah responded to the attackers immediately when they stormed the mosque during Maghrib prayers. His actions saved numerous lives before he was fatally wounded. The nineteen-year-old cadet’s sacrifice, ISPR stated, has become a symbol of resilience against efforts to destabilize the country.