President Asif Ali Zardari has approved the award of Sitara-e-Shujaat to Liaqat Shaheed, who sacrificed his life stopping a suicide bomber near Kohat.
Paying tribute to Liaqat Shaheed, President Asif Ali Zardari has approved the award of Sitara-e-Shujaat for the civilian who bravely confronted and stopped a suicide attacker in an inter-provincial area between Punjab’s Jand tehsil and Khyber Pakhtunkhwa's Khushal Garh Bridge. The incident took place on a field, where Liaqat, a retired Pakistan Railways employee and local resident, intervened by asking for the suspect's identification before he detonated explosives.
According to security sources, the attacker was from Fitna al-Khawarij and was moving through fields when Liaqat stepped in. The brave citizen sacrificed his life to prevent a potential major loss of life. President Zardari highlighted that Liaqat’s courage, sense of duty, and sacrifice serve as an exemplary role model for the nation.
The president stated, "Liaqat Shaheed's bravery is unmatched; he stood firm against the suicide bomber with unmatched courage." He added, "The nation salutes its brave son for his extraordinary courage and sacrifice in averting a possible large-scale tragedy."
In recognition of Liaqat’s actions, Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif recommended the award to the president. The approval was granted on Wednesday, according to an official statement issued by the government.
Liaqat Shaheed's funeral was held with full state honours, paying tribute to his selfless act that averted a major attack and saved countless lives. His bravery is celebrated as a shining example of patriotism and sacrifice for the nation.
