Today is the 29th death anniversary of the nation’s valiant son, SSP Ashraf Marth. Rich tributes were paid to Marth on the occasion for laying down his life in the line of duty. A Quran Khawani was held, and special prayers were offered for the salvation of the soul of the deceased. In this connection, a ceremony was held at SSP Ashraf Marth Shaheed Police Lines, Gujranwala. CPO Gujranwala Sardar Ghyas Gul Khan visited the memorial built in the honour of the late SSP and paid his respects there. A police contingent presented a salute on the occasion.

Paying rich tributes to Marth, IGP Punjab Rao Abdul Kareem said that brave officers like him were the Punjab Police’s pride. He said that Marth made a name for himself by performing his duties and showing leadership qualities and that the Punjab Police would never forget the sacrifices given by brave sons like him. On 6th May 1997, while en route to his office in Gujranwala, Ashraf Marth was ambushed and assassinated in a targeted attack. Following that, Gujranwala Police Lines was named after him.

Ashraf Marth was no ordinary officer. Described by peers as a man of immense discipline, unwavering resolve, and rare moral clarity, he dedicated his career to fighting crime and extremism at a time when Pakistan was engulfed in sectarian violence. He believed that the police uniform was not just a job—it was a responsibility to shield the public from chaos and fear. And in the end, he paid the ultimate price for that belief.

Credit: Independent News Pakistan (INP)