Expressing deep sorrow, BNP Acting Chairman Tarique Rahman has said he is heartbroken over the killing of six Bangladeshi peacekeepers in a terrorist attack on a United Nations peacekeeping base in the Abyei area of Sudan

“I am deeply saddened and heartbroken by the news that six brave Bangladeshi peacekeepers were killed, and eight others, including three female soldiers were injured in a brutal terrorist attack on a United Nations peacekeeping base in the Abyei area of Sudan,” he said in post on his verified Facebook page early Sunday.

Tarique said brave Bangladeshi soldiers, who laid down their lives while serving under the UN flag to protect world peace, are a source of great pride for the nation.

“Their sacrifice will always be remembered by Bangladesh. I pray for the forgiveness of the souls of the fallen peacekeepers and express my deepest sympathy to their grieving families,” he said.

The BNP leader wished a speedy recovery of the injured soldiers and called upon all concerned to stand by them during this difficult time.

As the son of a decorated army officer, Tarique said he has always been passionately inspired by the exceptional professionalism, courage and sacrifice of the Bangladesh Army.

“In the current situation, I believe the international community must take stronger and more effective steps to ensure the safety of peacekeepers. May Allah accept our brave soldiers as martyrs and grant the injured a swift recovery,” he said.