16th December 2014 - Our Darkest Hour [APS Tribute Video]

[TalhaSyed]

On the 16th of December 2014, 10:30am local time, one of the biggest tragedies in Pakistans' history hit the nation. In fact - I would go as far as saying it was arguably one of the biggest tragedies in recent human history, and one which shook every person who came across it to their very core. Seven gunmen stormed a school in Peshawar, with the sole objective to kill and harm as many of the 1,100 children and teachers present in the school on that fateful day.

This gruesome and sadistic act resulted in the death of 148 people, from which over 130 were children who had hoped to go and enjoy 'just another day' at school. Their bright futures were snatched away from them and hundreds of families were left devastated as a bunch of spineless cowards used these children lives as pawns in their sadistic game. It was one of the most brutal acts of terror in recent history, and I can not even begin to imagine what sort of sick and twisted mind could think of and justify such horrific actions.

We lost many beautiful, innocent lives that day. However, I hope that we will continue to fight against these brainwashed **** whose sole objective is to try and spread terror and hatred to every corner of the globe, and one day soon InshAllah put an end to their disgusting ways.

One year on from that heart breaking day I would like to share a short tribute video which I have put together for the victims of the Peshawar Army Public School Massacre.

Inna Lillahi wa inna ilaihi raji'un [We surely belong to Allah and to Him we shall return]

PS. With this video I'd like to ask you to do something I don't usually - in fact have never before - asked to do . Please do share this video as much as possible. Not because I want the video to gain popularity or anything. Simply because I do not want this horrific incident and what the children went through and their families and friends still are going through to be forgotten. We can not let the innocent lives lost that day become a forgotten part of history in my opinion.

​

 

[dashing_man]

 

[EliteCynical]

Rip.

 

[KeyboardWarrior]

we wont forgt. we will never forgt ....

 

[_Salman_]

Inna Lillahi wa inna ilaihi rajiun.

 

[90MPH]

One of the Blackest days in Pakistan's history.

Still can't believe how cowardly these scum were.

RIP to all the little kids.

 

[Waseem]

It was definitely one of our worst days in history, couldn't concentrate on anything for many days and had the worst possible feeling.

RIP all little angels

Only positive thing that came out is the unity people have shown against terrorists since the attack. There ware always people giving them benefit of doubt but NOTHING since then. May these animals rot in hell!

 

[Markhor]

RIP, too many young lives senselessly taken away.

Its a shame it took this for the Pakistani public to finally see the jihadi enemy for what it is, a cold-blooded brainwashed death cult in the guise of religious fundamentalism. There were far too many people with the apologist attitude of "well they're fighting the westerners, why should I condemn them, they're our fellow Muslims etc" but Peshawar was a watershed moment.

 

[Square Drive]

Inna lilahi wa ina ilaihi rajiun

May ALLAH bless all these little angels with Jannah and may all those bloody terrorists rot in hell.

 

[Abdullah719]

Innalillahi wa inna ilaihi raji'un.

 

[TalhaSyed]

It was indeed Pakistans darkest hour & one of the most sadistic things we could ever imagine


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[street cricketer]

One of the darkest days in the world's history and not just Pakistan's.

 

[DoosraTeesra]

Never Forget

 

[Varun]

RIP, a year on. Heartiest condolences to the families involved.

 

[adit_sh]

Darkest day for humanity

 

[TalhaSyed]

One of the darkest days in the world's history and not just Pakistan's.

Yup absolutely


Sent from my iPhone using Tapatalk

 

[dandapinda]

Sad news to even read ;(

 

[HaiderAbbasRizvi]

Was APS attack our darkest hour or was it the baldia factory where 268 (twice as many as the number of victims at APS) poor factory workers were locked up and burned alive by the "namaloom afraad" of a certain political party on the orders of the leaders of the same political party?

Selective indignation is hypocritical at best...

 

[Barragan]

One of the saddest days throughout human history.

Should never be forgotten.

 

[AlphaFighter]

This was our 9/11 more or less. This is the day which drove home the message that we have to purge these terrorists from our fabric and society.

 

[CricFan2012]

Wow what kindve pathetic individuals could carry out this attack...

Please tell me they were caught and hanged. Who was responsible for this and why did they do it?

 

[Nostalgic]

Lest we forget, Aziza K still lives. The cretin who celebrated the attack, and justified it.

A handful of intrepid souls protested outside that fortress of a mosque, to no avail. They filed FIRs, and all that happened was that they themselves got arrested. Such is that maulvi's clout that the Interior Minister lied through his teeth to protect him.

Every day he lives is a fresh slap on our faces.

 

[TalhaSyed]

2 years on from that tragic day.....

 

[Markhor]

I remember the day well. I recall tuning into the news seeing something about a shooting at a school in Peshawar, but nobody reported there had been mass casualties so hoped it'd be nothing too serious.

I certainly did not expect the massacre that transpired.

For years Pakistani screamed that this wasn't "their war", that peace deals should be made with the Taliban accommodated. Since that day, I hope nobody is left with any doubt that this is our war too.

 

[Syed1]

That day was the last time my eyes welled up

 

[Syed1]

I remember the day well. I recall tuning into the news seeing something about a shooting at a school in Peshawar, but nobody reported there had been mass casualties so hoped it'd be nothing too serious.

I certainly did not expect the massacre that transpired.

For years Pakistani screamed that this wasn't "their war", that peace deals should be made with the Taliban accommodated. Since that day, I hope nobody is left with any doubt that this is our war too.

Pakistan after 16th December 2014 is a different Pakistan, not one voice is raised when these Tali-dogs are bombed to smithereens

 

[Nostalgic]

Déjà vu, Post #22...

Lest we forget, Aziza K still lives. The cretin who celebrated the attack, and justified it.

A handful of intrepid souls protested outside that fortress of a mosque, to no avail. They filed FIRs, and all that happened was that they themselves got arrested. Such is that maulvi's clout that the Interior Minister lied through his teeth to protect him.

Every day he lives is a fresh slap on our faces.

I'll be posting the same thing every year, and he'll live on for God knows how much longer.

 

[Waseem]

Déjà vu, Post #22...

Lest we forget, Aziza K still lives. The cretin who celebrated the attack, and justified it.

A handful of intrepid souls protested outside that fortress of a mosque, to no avail. They filed FIRs, and all that happened was that they themselves got arrested. Such is that maulvi's clout that the Interior Minister lied through his teeth to protect him.

Every day he lives is a fresh slap on our faces.

I'll be posting the same thing every year, and he'll live on for God knows how much longer.

I hope this is your last post on this and he dies a natural death soon, last thing we need is a maqbara of manhoos mulllah burqa.

 

[CricFan2012]

This news when it hit me really made me cry, those innocent children are in a better place now. RIP

 

[ahmedwaqas92]

The only time in my adult life that I have literally sobbed for a week or so !! Was insanely tragic and may the Allah have mercy on all the parents who lost their children and on the people of Pakistan. Ameen

APS will never be forgotten and we will fight on against the people and forces that led to that tragic day !! Inshallah !!

 

[Deewana Mastana]

The problem is 2 years on and things stand as they did 2 years ago. Parents still waiting and waiting for answers as to why did such a heinous thing happen to their children, what was their fault?

Pakistan even after the 2008 earthquake has yet not been able to cater to ALL its effected people and here I am talking about the APS attack.

 

[Abdullah719]

Innalillahi wa inna ilaihi raji'un. Three years since that tragic day.

 

[Syed1]

Already three years passed but that day is as fresh in my memory as if it occurred yesterday.

Inna lillahi wa inna illahi rajioon


The darkest day in our history. May we continue to send every single Tali dog on an express ticket to hell.

 

[Waseem]

It's that day again, still remember it like yesterday and probably will haunt us for years to come.

Definitely our darkest day that took so many innocent angels away from us, May their souls rest in peace

I hope the security levels are increased further as these sponsored animals are still smelling blood of innocent people, they tried to repeat few days ago.

 

[Arham_PakFan]

Worst ever day in Pakistan’s history.Worst day of my life.I was in school back then myself and I remember my mid-terms had finished that day.I had planned to chill the whole week but what transpired in Peshawar drove me to tears.My heart felt heavy for quite a while and I couldn’t think of anything.Innocent kids my own age and younger than me were gunned down mercilessly by those vile creatures that call themselves the Taliban.May the victims rest in peace and the killers suffer in hell for all eternity.

 

[DRsohail]

still frsh in my mind those horrible scenes,,,but we the peshawri had many after that,,dont forget the recent griculture institute attack......RIP all victims!

 

[saeedhk]

The greatest loss in this world is to lose a child. I can't imagine how the families are coping with the tragedy.

 

[MenInG]

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-lang="en-gb"><p lang="en" dir="ltr">Three years ago, 132 students were brutally killed at the Army Public School Peshawar. I think of them today and everyday. <br><br>No child should face extremism and violence. No child should go to school in fear.<br><br>Every child deserves safe education.</p>— Malala (@Malala) <a href="https://twitter.com/Malala/status/941833014421594112?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">16 December 2017</a></blockquote>
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[Abdullah719]

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-lang="en"><p lang="en" dir="ltr">"The smallest coffins are the heaviest" �� <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/APSPeshawar?src=hash&ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#APSPeshawar</a> <a href="https://t.co/tiSWVxmGp0">pic.twitter.com/tiSWVxmGp0</a></p>— Ahmad Shahzad (@iamAhmadshahzad) <a href="https://twitter.com/iamAhmadshahzad/status/941977584660705280?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">December 16, 2017</a></blockquote>
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<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-lang="en"><p lang="en" dir="ltr">There are perhaps many causes worth dying for, but to me, certainly, there are none worth killing for. <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/APSPeshawar?src=hash&ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#APSPeshawar</a></p>— Wahab Riaz (@WahabViki) <a href="https://twitter.com/WahabViki/status/941976515201380353?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">December 16, 2017</a></blockquote>
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<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-lang="en"><p lang="en" dir="ltr">3 years today... Please pray that no one has to ever go through that again. May Almight give ease to all the families who lost a loved one that day ��<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/16December2014?src=hash&ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#16December2014</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/APSPeshawar?src=hash&ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#APSPeshawar</a></p>— Asad Shafiq (@asadshafiq1986) <a href="https://twitter.com/asadshafiq1986/status/941967071822471174?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">December 16, 2017</a></blockquote>
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<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-lang="en"><p lang="en" dir="ltr">Remembering the barbaric attack of <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/APSPeshawar?src=hash&ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#APSPeshawar</a>; a tragedy that left the nation with an irreplaceable loss. Salute to all those young souls who will always remain close to our hearts.<br><br>We stand in solidarity with families of the APS Martyrs. <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/NeverForgetAPSMartyrs?src=hash&ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#NeverForgetAPSMartyrs</a> <a href="https://t.co/8ASmRCUFIb">pic.twitter.com/8ASmRCUFIb</a></p>— Imran Khan (@ImeeK218) <a href="https://twitter.com/ImeeK218/status/941998140885995520?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">December 16, 2017</a></blockquote>
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[msb314]

Still remember this very vividly - it was on the same day that my grandmother passed away

May Allah bless the souls of all the kids who passed away that day....

 

[Square Drive]

Inna Lillahi wa Inna Ilaihi Raji'oon.

May Allah reward those innocent children and unite them with their families in the highest ranks of heaven, while putting the Taliban animals in the deepest of hell.

 

[Major]

Nation doesnt care, army doesnt care, nor the govt cares about this..... simple as that.

We could do all these anniversaries, candle lighting etc, but we still let guys like Ehsanulllah Ehsan and Abdul Aziz burkha wala roam freely.

When the state isn't bothered to provide justice this just shows the true picture.

I find it hilarious that huge crowds could easily be gathered if the finality of prophethood is at stake...Like if that would bring any difference to our living, but when guys like Ehsanullah Ehsan are freed or Abdul Azizi could celebrate the killings and roam freely, no one wants to do the walk then.....

 

[Major]

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-lang="en"><p lang="en" dir="ltr">3 years today... Please pray that no one has to ever go through that again. May Almight give ease to all the families who lost a loved one that day ��<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/16December2014?src=hash&ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#16December2014</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/APSPeshawar?src=hash&ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#APSPeshawar</a></p>— Asad Shafiq (@asadshafiq1986) <a href="https://twitter.com/asadshafiq1986/status/941967071822471174?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">December 16, 2017</a></blockquote>
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Prayers don't do anything Mr. Asad Shafiq..... Change happens when you take action.

Ehsanullah Ehsan was given a free chit. Thank god Court intervened for now.

Abdul Aziz celebrates this....

This nation even backs the likes of Hafiz Saeed

 

[big_gamer007]

One of the most horrific days for the entire world.. RIP to the victims.

 

[saeedhk]

Of course, questions and doubts remain. For example, notwithstanding the grizzly slaughter at the Army Public School exactly on this day three years ago, the security establishment has yet to act against the chief perpetrator of that massacre, Ehsanullah Ehsan, who is in its custody. Nevertheless the army has managed to seize back its public image as the guarantor of peace in Pakistan. - Dr Pervez Hoodbhoy

 

[Abdullah719]

Four years on, deadly APS attack still haunts parents

PESHAWAR: Four years after the terrorists stormed the Army Public School and brutally killed 147 people, 132 of them school children, parents still remember the tragic day when they sent their children to the school and received bullet-riddled bodies in the evening.
The lethal attack on Army Public School (APS) is no doubt Pakistan’s 9/11. A group of six terrorists entered the heavily-guarded school and started shooting the students and staff. Majority of the students were mercilessly gunned down in the school auditorium.

The nation went through a difficult phase and showed solidarity with the victims of the tragedy.

Some parents despite their huge loss feel proud today. They say the sacrifice of their children prompted the government to take decisive action against the militants.

Pakistan had already launched a massive military offensive against the local and foreign militants in North Waziristan on June 15, 2014, but it was after the APS massacre that civil and military leadership conceived the 20-point National Action Plan in January 2015 to curb terrorism.

The moratorium on death penalty was lifted so that convicted terrorists could be executed and all the political parties in a meeting on December 24, 2014 supported the move to set up military courts.

Tufail Khattak is among the parents who lost their children in the APS attack.

His 16-year old son Sher Shah, a student of 10th class, was martyred. The handsome boy was not only a brilliant student but also lively. He used to stay around his father after his school time and had become familiar with his father’s friends.

On December 16, 2014, Sher Shah was not feeling well but he still went to school.

When the terrorists attacked APS, Sher Shah was among the students gathered in the auditorium where his younger brother, Ahmad Shah of class 8, was also present.

His parents later came to know from the survivors that Sher Shah had managed to come out of the auditorium but he went back when someone told him that his younger Ahmad Shah was still inside.

In fact, Ahmad Shah had already left the hall but fate brought Sher Shah there again to embrace martyrdom.

Sher Shah’s father, mother and his young brother and sister still are unable to forget the tragedy. The couple developed multiple diseases, including depression, hypertension and diabetes as the tragedy was beyond their imagination.

They consulted doctors to get relief and overcome the suffering, but in vain.

When most parents of the APS victims were demanding judicial inquiry of the attack and seeking compensation, Sher Shah’s father Tufail Khattak initiated talent award scholarship in the name of his martyred son.

The idea was to encourage students in their studies in their native Dag Ismailkhel village in Nowshera district.

Every year funds from the Sher Shah Shaheed scholarship is given to students obtaining first, second and third positions in their class.

The topper of 10th class is given Rs15,000 while those winning second and third positions are paid Rs10,000 and Rs5,000, respectively.

The students securing first, second and third positions in 5th, 6th, 7th and 8th classes also receive cash prizes.

The topper in each class is given Rs5,000, while Rs3,000 and Rs2,000 are given to the students who secure second and third positions in their classes.

Last year, one student was awarded Rs5,000 under Sher Shah Shaheed Talent Award for his contribution to writing of the holy Quran by hand.

The school in late Sher Shah’s native village has also been named after him. It is now called Government High School Sher Shah Shaheed.

Tufail Khattak had started his career as a journalist but later joined a private firm.

“Our loss is no doubt irreparable and can never be forgotten but today I feel so happy that peace has been restored in Pakistan,” remarked Tufail Khattak.

https://www.thenews.com.pk/print/406056-four-years-on-deadly-aps-attack-still-haunts-parents

 

[Angrez Pakistani]

Before the APS massacre I thought I could manage my emotions under any circumstances. It wasn’t like incidents of terrorism were unheard of. APS changed everything. I still can’t hold my tears when I read an article on the subject or revisit the media coverage of APS.
Here’s a link to all the lives lost in the incident;
https://www.dawn.com/news/1223313

 

[Angrez Pakistani]

https://m.youtube.com/watch?v=FxDKs_6GPIM

 

[Angrez Pakistani]

The story that I find most tragic and inspiring at the same time is that of Irshad Hussain. The boy suffered horrendous injuries on his back and on his hands but he persevered and graduated from the school. He finally succumbed to his injuries two years after the massacre. I wish he is in a better place now. #RIP brother #neverforget

 

[Angrez Pakistani]

Khaula Bibi
Age: 6
Class: 1

Daughter of Altaf Hussain and Safoora Bibi
Siblings: Samar (12), Shobaid (11) and Areeba (4)


Khaula was the youngest, and only female student killed in the horrific attack. According to her father, a teacher at APS, December 16 was Khaula’s first day at school. She had gained admission to class 1 a day earlier, and was excited to study at the same school as her siblings.

Her family describes little Khaula as a flower. Even at that tender age, she was passionate about education and was outspoken about the right of girls to go to school. She helped weak classmates with their English and Urdu. She persuaded a professor in her neighbourhood to send his daughter to school, and despite his vehement opposition, he melted. He was swayed by Khaula and her sweet words.

Her family is shattered. Her mother says she will never recover from the loss of her precious daughter.

 

[Angrez Pakistani]

Shahzad Ijaz
Age: 12
Class: 8

Son of Mian Ijaz Ahmed and Tahira Ijaz
Siblings: Hina Ijaz (16), Zakriya Ijaz (12) and Bisma Ijaz (9)


Polite and studious, Shahzad had dreamed of becoming an airforce pilot. Rashid Minhas was his role model. Shahzad would collect pictures of the airforce, and loved reading books about fighter jets and air combat.

Shahzad enjoyed playing sports, especially cricket. Ahmed Shahzad was his favourite player. His younger brother Zakriya, who is a student at the APS, recalls how once in grade 7 Shahzad injured his arm during a football match but didn’t quit playing despite the fracture.

On the day of attack, Shahzad had woken up early, eager to put on his new clothes. The clothes were for his upcoming interview for PAF College. Shahzad had passed the college test with 90 per cent marks. The result arrived seven days after his passing.

 

[Angrez Pakistani]

Shahzeb
Age: 12
Class: 8

Son of Nazir Ahmed and Shahnaz
*Siblings: Laaraib (9), Shawaiz (6) and Shaheer (1)


Shahzeb always rushed home from school to dive into his computer games. He would save all his pocket money to buy CDs of the latest titles. When he switched off from the gaming world, he would listen to music and also read books.

Young Shahzeb also performed well when it came to his studies and secured high marks in his last exam. He won several medals in academics and extra-curricular activities.

Remembered by his father as a brave boy, Shahzeb chose the lives of his friends over his own. His classmate Samiullah says Shahzeb saved him and their other friends during the massacre.

 

[Angrez Pakistani]

Ahmed Ali Shah
Age: 13
Class: 8

Son of Khalid Mehmood (late) and Jameela Kosar
Siblings: Mohammad Ahmed (12)


Ahmed was wise beyond his years, his mother says, possibly because he lost his father when he was 4-years-old. He had assumed a tremendous responsibility at a young age, as a result of which, unlike other children his age, he would not ask his mother to buy him anything.

Bright and studious, Ahmed had a beautiful singing voice. He was often called upon to recite Naats. He would detail his future plans to his mother; he wanted to become an auto engineer. He would sketch designs and tell his mother he would build real cars one day.

His mother says he was an old soul, and because of his love for poetry, his mother would often lovingly refer to him as Shair, Ashfaq Ahmed. After his father, he took care of me, his mother says.

 

[Angrez Pakistani]

Azaan Toraylay
Age: 13
Class: 9

Son of Major (retd) Sohailur Rahman and Zil-i-Huma Gul Sohail
* Siblings: Hayan Nangyalay (19), Hassaan Baryalay (17), Aman Gul Sohail (14) and Wadan Numyalay (8)*


Azaan Toraylay was true to his name (means brave in Pashto). Azaan wished to join the Pakistan Army like his father. Once, he even performed guard duty when his father’s vehicle gave way in Shikarpur on the Grand Trunk road. His father says Azaan kept watch through the night so he and his friends could sleep.

Azaan was also fond of keeping pets. His father recalls how when Azaan passed, his pet dog was saddened to the extent that he got sick, and for about 20 days, refused to eat any food. Young Azaan was also fond of playing cricket. He would urge his father to arrange informal cricket tournaments with his friends.

Proud of Azaan, his family regards him as a brave boy. But the tears in their eyes betray how with him gone, their life has changed so much.

 

[Angrez Pakistani]

Wahab ud Din
Age: 13
Class: 8

Son of Rakshanda and Kabir ud Din
Siblings: Sana (23) and Shahab ud Din (21)

For Wahab’s father, the loss of his youngest son was too much too bear. Two months after the horrific attack, his father’s health took a turn for the worse. He passed away.

His mother says her son was a studious child who worked late into the night. She also says he was very sensitive to his parents needs. He was close to his father, and would often discuss his passion for science and research with him. He wanted to become a scientist.

He loved cats. He took care of many strays, giving them milk and preparing special meals for them.

The family is shattered by this tragedy. They have lost the sole bread earner. Wahab’s mother prays for better days.

 

[Angrez Pakistani]

Wasif Ali Khattak
Age: 13
Class: 8

Son of Captain Ali Khan Khattak and Shahnoon
Siblings: Asim (24), Laiba (22), Saqib (20) and Asif Siraj (19)

Wasif was the youngest of five siblings and for this reason, all his demands and wishes were met by his parents and siblings.

He loved animals. He once saw a puppy drowning in a canal and jumped in to rescue it.

He aspired to become a doctor when he grew up. He wanted to work in his village of Gundi Mirah Khan Khel Khattak. He would often tell his brother of his dream to establish a free treatment clinic in the village after he secured an MBBS degree.

His parents say they miss him dearly and wish he was with them every day.

 

[Angrez Pakistani]

There are many other gut wrenching stories in feeling too overwhelmed too post other victims’ stories. But they are all equally important to remember.

 

[gazza619]

Wasif Ali Khattak
Age: 13
Class: 8

Son of Captain Ali Khan Khattak and Shahnoon
Siblings: Asim (24), Laiba (22), Saqib (20) and Asif Siraj (19)

Wasif was the youngest of five siblings and for this reason, all his demands and wishes were met by his parents and siblings.

He loved animals. He once saw a puppy drowning in a canal and jumped in to rescue it.

He aspired to become a doctor when he grew up. He wanted to work in his village of Gundi Mirah Khan Khel Khattak. He would often tell his brother of his dream to establish a free treatment clinic in the village after he secured an MBBS degree.

His parents say they miss him dearly and wish he was with them every day.

So sad
I have a 13 year old son and the pain of the parents is unimaginable...

 

[Angrez Pakistani]

So sad
I have a 13 year old son and the pain of the parents is unimaginable...

Wahab ud Din
Age: 13
Class: 8

Son of Rakshanda and Kabir ud Din
Siblings: Sana (23) and Shahab ud Din (21)

For Wahab’s father, the loss of his youngest son was too much too bear. Two months after the horrific attack, his father’s health took a turn for the worse. He passed away.

 

[MenInG]

Prime Minister Imran Khan in a message on the fourth anniversary of the terrorist attack on Peshawar's Army Public School reiterated the nation's resolve towards national, regional and world peace, Radio Pakistan reported on Sunday.

The prime minister said that the massacre had united the whole nation against a common enemy, which he described as a "blot on humanity".

He added that education is the best tool to eliminate extremism and terrorism permanently.

Prime Minister Khan paid tribute to members of the armed forces and law enforcement agencies who have rendered countless sacrifices in the war against terror.

The premier expressed the government's commitment to turn Pakistan into a society which does not tolerate extremism or violence in the name of sect, religion, language, skin colour or ethnicity.

The attack on Army Public School on Dec 16, 2014, left at least 144 people, mostly children, dead.

https://www.dawn.com/news/1451754/p...ve-for-peace-on-4th-anniversary-of-aps-attack

 

[Hitman]

Still remember it like it was yesterday. Nothing could be more horrific than what happened that day. I won't disrespect animals by comparing the attackers and those behind the attacks with them. Animals hunt for food, not for religion.

RIP to all the victims!

 

[Solid Snake]

I remember hearing about this as it was unfolding... I have never felt as despondent as I did on this day and the ones that followed. I cannot begin to fathom the pain and suffering of the parents, brothers, sisters, and friends who lost loved ones. The stories you shared Angrez Pakistani were so difficult to read, but everyone of these kids whose futures were stolen from them, deserve to be remembered...

 

[MenInG]

The judicial commission, probing the 2014 attack on Peshawar’s Army Pubic School, has recorded over a 100 statements, to date.

Formed on October 5, on the directives of the Supreme Court, the commission is tasked to thoroughly probe one of Pakistan’s deadliest terror attacks that killed 141 people, 134 of them children.

The brutal attack was a watershed moment for the country. Thereafter, a military operation was launched in the tribal belt of Pakistan to cleanse it of foreign and local militants. A National Action Plan (NAP) was also drafted and several terrorists who facilitated the carnage have been tried and executed.

Yet, for the last four years, grieving parents of the martyred children have been demanding an inquiry report that answers questions, about security lapses on the day of the attack and official warnings prior to the seven militants storming the school premises.

Earlier this year, Chief Justice Saqib Nisar met the protesting parents and appointed Justice Muhammad Ibrahim Khan of the Peshawar High Court to led an inquiry.

Over 100 people, including survivors, witnesses, families of the martyred, and officers of the Counter-Terrorism Department have been interviewed, so far.

The commission had six weeks, from the day of its formation, to complete the probe, which ended in November. However, this month, the commission asked for another two weeks to compile its findings.

The final date of submission now is December 20.

https://www.geo.tv/latest/222173-the-aps-probe-over-a-100-statements-recorded

 

[Hitman]

I remember there were mourning in schools all over India the day after the tragedy. And this was after the Mumbai attacks. Just goes on to show that humanity knows no borders. The loss of an innocent life is left by everyone irrespective of any differences. My Mum was really affected for a few days after following the news on TV that day. Sickening to the core!

Still remember an Assamese poem that was in our text books back when I was in the 5th standard. One of the lines said that there are different types of grief people endure in life, but none come close to the grief of losing a child.

My heart goes out to the parents of the unfortunate little souls. We can say all we want to comfort them and help them get along with their lives. But let's face it, even we know deep in our hearts that they'll never recover from it in their lifetime, they'll continue to suffer in agony and misery forever.

 

[Angrez Pakistani]

It boils my blood to see some ppl in the media giving a clean chit to Ehsanullah Ehsan, in relation to APS.

 

[Hitman]

It boils my blood to see some ppl in the media giving a clean chit to Ehsanullah Ehsan, in relation to APS.

The reason those ******** don't feel any of it is because they probably haven't gone through the same. This was one tragedy that hurt me just as much as the Mumbai attacks did. And I'm genuinely speaking.

 

[aukhan]

It boils my blood to see some ppl in the media giving a clean chit to Ehsanullah Ehsan, in relation to APS.

They do what they are told to do...blame the corrupt army for this. They have lost all their credibility. First OBL fiasco exposed them than this Peshawar tragedy. Every year they fool people on this day by giving death punishments to random terrorists while protecting the head of TTP and son of soil Ehsan ullah ehsan.

Justice will not be served until that son of soil is alive and under army's protection.

 

[ahmedzee]

Pakistan needs to go on internal forum and press india for their hand in this terrorist massacre (and others) on Pakistan soil.

 

[ILcricket]

It was really shocking . Mere thought of kids being mowed down in school shook me to the core .
Which outfit was held responsible for this & what happened to it ?

 

[TalhaSyed]

Half a decade on from that heart wrenching day - it's still impossible to imagine what sort sick mind could do this to innocent children...

I remember sitting there at my desk at work with tears uncontrollably filling my eyes as I read the news.

The death of innocent people is always sad - but this one really hit hard.

 

[MenInG]

PESHAWAR: The fifth anniversary of the horrible attack on the Army Public School (APS), Peshawar, will be observed on Monday.

On Dec 16, 2014, six terrorists affiliated with the banned Tehreek-i-Taliban Pakistan conducted the attack on the school and killed 132 innocent students and 17 staff members.

In the memories of their beloved martyred sons, the parents held a candlelit vigil on the APS Shuhada Memorial located outside the Peshawar Archives Library on Sunday.

Moving scenes were witnessed during the vigil and mourning procession as several mothers burst into tears while watching the pictures of their martyred children and discussing their memories.

The parents also organised Quran Khwani on the Archives Library’s premises and prayed to Allah to rest the departed souls in Jannatul Firdaus.

A big banner with the pictures of the martyred students was displayed on the APS Shuhada Hall.

A total of 132 students and 17 staff members died in Taliban attack

The parents also held banners and pictures of their martyred children during the mourning procession, which emerged from the Archives Library and culminated at the Peshawar Press Club.

“We have not forgotten the martyrs of the APS tragedy,” read a banner.

On Monday, the main official programme will be held on the APS campus to be attended by parents of the martyrs. High-ups of the army and the Khyber Pakhtunkhwa government are also likely to attend the event.

Other programmes will be held in the APS Shuhada Hall in the Archives Library and Islamia College University, Peshawar.

Remembering the martyrs, Qaumi Watan Party chairman Aftab Ahmad Khan Sherpao on Sunday paid his respects to the *victims of the APS attack and said that the nation will always remember the *tragedy.

In a statement issued here on Sunday, he recalled that the attack had united the nation in its fight against terrorism.

Mr Sherpao said his party shared the grief of the bereaved families and prayed to Allah Almighty to grant them the courage and fortitude to bear this loss with equanimity.

“The nation is still in a state of shock and grief over the brazen attack in which innocent schoolchildren were targeted,” he added.

Meanwhile, Pakistan Peoples Party chairman Bilawal Bhutto-Zardari paid rich tribute to the innocent martyrs of APS.

In his message, the PPP leader said that extremism and terrorism were the enemies of peace and human development. Those who facilitated and sponsored the scourge of terrorism had committed crimes against humanity and it was the responsibility of the nation to say ‘never again’.

Mr Bhutto-Zardari said that extremism and terrorism had been used as a tool to advance certain vested interests and impose specific agendas in an attempt to hold the citizens hostage to constant fear.

He said the PPP had always maintained its stance against terrorism and had been bold and clear in its message that the people of Pakistan deser*ved to live their lives, free from threats to personal and religious freedoms. The PPP had suffered greatly for its stand as its leadership and workers were martyred in this fight against authoritarianism in all its forms, he added.

He said killing of innocent children at the APS Peshawar would continue to haunt Pakistan and remain as a black spot in the history of the nation unless “we fight back against the forces that not just commit but also aid and abet terrorism”.

https://www.dawn.com/news/1522499/parents-organise-rally-on-eve-of-fifth-anniversary-of-aps-massacre

 

[Syed1]

I still remember this day like it happened yesterday.... my mother called me crying informing me of what had happened. I was sick to the stomach and left work early since I couldn't concentrate on anything.


Some of the pictures and videos coming through were so heart wrenching. This event was perhaps the catalyst for the ENTIRE Pakistani nation to stand up and accept the Taliban as our enemy. Taliban apologists were shunned or silenced. 5 years on we have almost completely eliminated the Taliban. May they burn in hell for eternity.

 

[Abdullah719]

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-lang="en"><p lang="en" dir="ltr">“APS carnage will never be forgotten. Five of the involved terrorists have been hanged through military courts. Salute to 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”, COAS. <a href="https://t.co/Swv1ocF3gO">pic.twitter.com/Swv1ocF3gO</a></p>— DG ISPR (@OfficialDGISPR) <a href="https://twitter.com/OfficialDGISPR/status/1206441710861144064?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">December 16, 2019</a></blockquote>
<script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

 

[Waleed93]

I was coming back home for the lunch break when my brother called me on that Tuesday.
He just told me to come home quickly, as something bad is happening in Peshawar.

To be honest, keeping in mind the city's security environment in those days, I immediately feared a terrorist attack. But even in my wildiest dreams, I would not have guessed what had actually happened. My brother didn't tell me the whole story, and I disconnected quickly too as I was driving.

When I came back home, I saw my entire family glued to Pakistani news channels. My mother was in tears. I could not believe a terrorist attack had actually took place in a school. When I was told that it was happening is an Army run school, I understood that those monsters were not going to hold any talks with the Army or the government, they were there on a mission, to kill as many children as possible.

When I came home, the death toll had already crossed 80, most of the martyrs being innocent children aged between 6 and 18. The most terrible feeling was when the news channels started reporting that a female teacher was burnt alive in front of the children.
The death toll soon catapulted to 130+, and since then, everything has changed.

Unfortunately, on that day, we failed as a nation. 150 innocent souls had to be brutally killed for this nation to finally wake up and recognise the Taliban as the enemy. That Tuesday could have been avoided if actions were taken earlier against those ********.

It's been half a decade today and that morning is still fresh in our memories like it happened yesterday. The darkest day in our history. May the innocent souls Rest In Peace, and may the Almighty give some much needed patience to their families.

We will never forget. We will never forgive.

 

[Angrez Pakistani]

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet"><p lang="en" dir="ltr">For four years, families of the children killed in the APS attack demanded answers. <br><br>Last year, a judicial probe was ordered. What became of it? Not much. Nazar ul Islam and I report. <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/NeverForget?src=hash&ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#NeverForget</a> <a href="https://t.co/09qrNbBcLX">https://t.co/09qrNbBcLX</a></p>— Benazir Shah (@Benazir_Shah) <a href="https://twitter.com/Benazir_Shah/status/1206146880037634048?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">December 15, 2019</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

 

[Angrez Pakistani]

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet"><p lang="en" dir="ltr">Andaleeb Aftab lost her 16-year-old son in the APS attack. The mother of two is now suffering from a terminal illness, due to an injury during the assault. “No one wants to give us justice.” <a href="https://t.co/09qrNbBcLX">https://t.co/09qrNbBcLX</a></p>— Benazir Shah (@Benazir_Shah) <a href="https://twitter.com/Benazir_Shah/status/1206150517631717378?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">December 15, 2019</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

 

[Angrez Pakistani]

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet"><p lang="en" dir="ltr">The judicial commission probing the APS attack was to submit its report last year. The delay, says the focal person, is due to recorded statements being very long as well as due to a delayed response from military officials. <a href="https://t.co/09qrNbBcLX">https://t.co/09qrNbBcLX</a></p>— Benazir Shah (@Benazir_Shah) <a href="https://twitter.com/Benazir_Shah/status/1206159423376445440?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">December 15, 2019</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

 

[Angrez Pakistani]

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet"><p lang="en" dir="ltr">“The commission has been working for over a year and so far there is only silence. Our children were innocent. But no one wants to give us justice.” - a mother who lost her 16-year-old son in the APS attack. <a href="https://t.co/09qrNbBcLX">https://t.co/09qrNbBcLX</a></p>— Benazir Shah (@Benazir_Shah) <a href="https://twitter.com/Benazir_Shah/status/1206206382741114882?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">December 15, 2019</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

 

[saeedhk]

This was most brutal and savage attack in Pakistan’s bloodstained history. While we are vowing to never forget this tragedy, Ahsanullah Ahsan is sitting comfortably somewhere in a luxury hotel.

 

[Mueez]

Never forget never forgive...

Still get goosebumps whilst reading news about it.