SOUTH WAZIRISTAN: Federal Interior Minister Mohsin Naqvi paid a visit to the Frontier Corps Khyber Pakhtunkhwa (South) Headquarters, Wana, in Lower South Waziristan and celebrated Eidul Azha with troops, honouring their sacrifices and reaffirming the nation’s commitment to unity and peace.

Upon his arrival, the minister was received by the inspector general of FC KP (South). As part of the visit, minister Naqvi laid a floral wreath at the Martyrs’ Monument, paying homage to the brave security personnel, tribal civilians, and police officers who sacrificed their lives for the defence of the motherland.

He also offered Eid prayers with FC officers and troops, during which special prayers were held for enduring peace, national stability, and prosperity across Pakistan.

Later, addressing the soldiers, Mr Naqvi paid rich tribute to their bravery, patriotism, and unwavering resolve.

Naqvi celebrates Eid with troops during visit to Wana

“Your sacrifices and steadfastness are the guarantee of the nation’s safety, and it is this spirit that represents the true strength of Pakistan,” he said.

He further acknowledged the remarkable role of security forces and tribal communities in the fight against terrorism, describing their sacrifices as invaluable and unforgettable. The tribal people, he said, were a precious national asset, whose courage and loyalty were written in golden letters in the nation’s history.

The minister’s visit is being viewed as a symbolic reaffirmation of the state’s presence in sensitive border regions and its continued dedication to peace and security.

Celebrating Eid with the troops, according to observers, sends a clear message of solidarity — that the nation stands shoulder to shoulder with its defenders.

TWO SHOT DEAD: Two people were killed and two children suffered injuries in separate gun attacks during Eid holidays in Lower South Waziristan.

The first incident occurred on the second day of Eid, when unidentified gunmen opened fire at an illegal checkpoint in the Kari Kot Bazaar of Wana, killing two individuals.

Sources identified the deceased as Sayed Mohammad and Abdul Rehman, purportedly linked to the Lawagin group.

According to initial police investigation, the attackers had barricaded the road and opened fire without provocation as the deceased passed by.

In a separate incident, two children sustained serious injuries when gunmen attacked a vehicle carrying children in the Manra area of Birmal tehsil.

Police officials said that the vehicle, a single-cabin pickup, was returning from a recreational outing when it came under indiscriminate fire. Fifteen children and the driver were aboard at the time of the attack.

While most of the passengers escaped unharmed, two boys were seriously wounded and immediately shifted to District Headquarters Hospital, Wana.

One of the injured children, Abdul Basir, was later referred to a hospital in Dera Ismail Khan in critical condition. His family has appealed for urgent blood donations, as doctors say his condition remains precarious.

Police launched investigations into both the incidents. However, no arrests have been made, and the motive behind either attack remains unclear.

Published in Dawn, June 11th, 2025