Pakistan experienced a black day on December 16, 2014. Six gunmen targeted Peshawar's Army Public School (APS). They belonged to Tehrik-i-Taliban Pakistan (TTP). Of the claimed 149 deaths in the incident were 132 students. It is among the worst school attacks ever recorded worldwide. The tragedy shocked and depressed Pakistan.
The APS attack began at 10:30 in the morning. The terrorists climbed the APS school’s walls. They carried guns and grenades. They wore military uniforms to avoid suspicion. Their target was clear: to kill as many people as possible.
The attackers first set fire to their vehicle outside the school. Then, they moved toward the auditorium. Students were gathered there for a first-aid session. The terrorists opened fire without hesitation. They shot at students and teachers alike. Some children were forced to watch their teachers being killed. Principal Tahira Qazi was burned alive.
The school turned into a battlefield. Screams and gunfire filled the air. The terrorists showed no mercy. They went from classroom to classroom, killing anyone they found. The APS attack lasted for several hours. It was a scene of unimaginable horror.
The Pakistan Army responded quickly. Special Services Group (SSG) commandos were sent to the school. They entered the building within 15 minutes. Their mission was to stop the terrorists and save lives.
The SSG soldiers engaged the attackers in a fierce fight. They cornered the terrorists in the administration block. One by one, the gunmen were killed. By the end of the operation, all six terrorists were dead. The army rescued 960 people. Seven soldiers were injured during the mission.
After the Peshawar attack, the school was searched for explosives. The terrorists had planted bombs to cause even more damage. Thankfully, these were defused in time. The security forces also intercepted the terrorists’ communications. This helped them understand the attackers’ plans.
The Peshawar attack left Pakistan in grief. Families mourned the loss of their loved ones. The entire nation united in sorrow and anger. The tragedy highlighted the need for stronger measures against terrorism.
The government took swift action. It introduced the National Action Plan (NAP) to combat terrorism. The plan included:
Four terrorists who were involved in the APS attack were put to death in December 2015. During the Peshawar attack, two more people died. Omar Khorasani, who planned the whole thing, was killed in Afghanistan in 2022. These steps sent attackers a strong message.
Every year, 16 December Black Day is observed to honor the victims. Schools hold moments of silence. Communities organize vigils and memorials. The day reminds everyone of the sacrifices made in the fight against terrorism.
The massacre left a lasting impact on the nation. It brought people together in grief and resolve. It also inspired efforts to improve security and protect children in schools.
The tragedy showed the resilience of Pakistan’s people. Families of the victims turned their pain into action. They advocated for education and peace. The government intensified military operations, including Zarb-e-Azb and Khyber-1. These efforts significantly reduced militant activities.
The memory of the APS attack remains fresh. It serves as a reminder of the cost of extremism. It also motivates the nation to continue fighting terrorism. Pakistan aims to create a safe environment where children can learn without fear.
A pivotal event in Pakistani history was the 2014 Peshawar school massacre. That day will live in memory as painful. Still, the bravery of the victims and their relatives gives hope. Their heritage supports the struggle for a peaceful future. The terrorist attack of 16 December Black Day will always serve as a lesson to be together in opposition to terrorism.
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