PM Imran vows not to allow militant mindset to take over country

To mark the fifth anniversary of the Army Public School (APS) massacre, Prime Minister Imran Khan vowed that he will not allow the militant mindset to take over the country, reported Radio Pakistan.

In his message, PM Imran pledged that the militants will not be allowed to hold the nation hostage to its “bigoted vision”.

The premier said the blood of the innocent united the entire nation against all forms of extremism, terrorism, violence and hatred. The PM also lauded the sacrifices of the armed forces, police and law enforcing agencies in the fight against terrorism.

Also read: The mothers of APS martyrs: Waiting on a promise, longing for justice

While, Chief of the Army Staff (COAS) General Qamar Javed Bajwa said that the APS carnage will never be forgotten.

General Bajwa’s remark were shared by Director General Inter-Services Public Relations (ISPR) Major General Asif Ghafoor on Twitter.

"Five of the involved terrorists have been hanged through military courts,” the army chief said as he offered a "salute to the martyrs and their families".

"We have come a long way in failing terrorism as a nation. United we move towards lasting peace and prosperity of Pakistan,” he added.

Nation cannot forget the massacre of little angels/teachers

President Arif Alvi in his message said "the nation cannot forget the massacre of little angels and teachers of APS."

The president's office tweeted: "Hard to commemorate this day without tears in one's eyes."

Also read: Remembering the martyrs of APS tragedy

President Alvi reiterated the country's "pledge to root out terrorism and extremism in all its manisfestations".

On December 16, 2014, terrorists stormed the army-run school and martyred around 150 people, including more than 130 young students.

The incident shook the country and resulted in the formation of a National Action Plan to stem extremism and terrorism in the country, as well as the creation of military courts to try "hardcore" terrorists.

Special prayer held at APS

A special ceremony was also held for the martyrs of the attack at the APS, said the ISPR.

The military’s media wing said that a contingent of Pakistan Army presented a guard of honour at the school.

Peshawar Corps Commander Lt Gen Nauman Mahmood laid a floral wreath at the martyrs’ monument and offered fateha for the departed souls.

Later, he took part in a Quran Khawani, which was attended by the families of the martyrs, school children and staff. Lt Gen Mahmood also met the families of the martyrs.