WANA: The teachers and cadets of Cadet College Wana have demonstrated remarkable courage and composure following the cowardly terrorist attack on their institution, reaffirming their commitment to stand as a “wall of steel” against terrorism.
According to sources, Field Marshal Asim Munir, Chief of Army Staff, personally monitored the counter-terror operation in real-time.
“These young cadets are the builders of our nation — ensure not a single harm comes their way,” Field Marshal Munir directed during the operation, sources said.
Cadets shared that Pakistan Army soldiers acted as a human shield for over 24 hours, sacrificing their lives to protect the students. “They stood between us and the terrorists, giving their lives to save ours,” a cadet said.
Operation Commander Colonel Muhammad Tahir, who led the operation, said that on November 10, five terrorists launched an assault on Cadet College Wana — a prestigious institution established by the Pakistan Army as a gift to the people of South Waziristan.
“One suicide bomber detonated himself while the others attempted to breach the main gate,” Colonel Tahir said.
“The terrorists tried to take the students hostage, but the swift and decisive response of our security forces foiled their heinous plans,” he added.
He further stated that the troops successfully confined the terrorists to a specific block, ensuring the safety of all cadets.
“By around 10:30 p.m., after an intense engagement, all terrorists were eliminated,” the commander confirmed.
One cadet recalled: “We were preparing for a drill competition at dusk when the explosion occurred. We immediately knew it was an attack by those who fear education. But we were calm — our teachers assured us the Pakistan Army had arrived.”
Another cadet said, “The enemies of education can do whatever they wish, but they cannot stop us from learning.”
Teachers and cadets alike expressed gratitude to the security forces for their timely and heroic action, which prevented what could have been a catastrophic tragedy.
The operation’s success not only saved dozens of young lives but also underscored the unwavering resolve of Pakistan’s armed forces and the people of South Waziristan to defeat terror in all its forms.