Islamabad: President Asif Ali Zardari has paid tribute to the police personnel martyred in a terrorist attack on the Fateh Khel police station in Bannu. In a statement, President Asif Ali Zardari prayed for the eternal peace and elevation of the ranks of the martyrs and asked their families to remain steadfast during this difficult time.

The President also expressed sorrow over the damage caused to the homes of local residents in the incident. He directed the provincial and Federal Governments to ensure all possible assistance for the injured and those affected by the attack.

President Asif Ali Zardari said the nefarious designs of terrorist elements would be foiled and reiterated that the nation stands shoulder to shoulder with its forces.

He said that at a time when Pakistan is striving for regional and global peace, terrorists backed by India are targeting Pakistan's civilian population and law enforcement agencies from sanctuaries provided by the Taliban regime.

The President expressed confidence that Pakistan will succeed in its efforts for global peace and defeat terrorists as well as their patrons. He said Pakistan will target not only terrorists but also their facilitators and sponsors.

Meanwhile Interior Minister Syed Mohsin Raza Naqvi in a statement said that he was deeply saddened by the tragic incident in Bannu in which 15 brave KPK policemen embraced shahadat in the line of duty.

Mohsin Naqvi said that these courageous sons of the soil sacrificed their lives while protecting the people of Pakistan and defending peace. Their bravery, commitment and sacrifice will never be forgotten.

'My heartfelt condolences and prayers are with the families of the martyrs. May Allah grant the highest ranks in Jannah to the shuhada and give patience and strength to their loved ones' Mohsin Naqvi said.

He said that Pakistan stands united against terrorism and such cowardly acts can never weaken our resolve.