President Zardari Approves Sitara-i-Shujaat for Shepherd Martyred While Foiling Suicide Attack

ISLAMABAD: President Asif Ali Zardari on Wednesday approved the award of the prestigious Sitara-i-Shujaat for a courageous citizen who sacrificed his life while preventing a suicide attack in Jand tehsil of Attock.

The award was approved on the recommendation of Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif, according to state-run PTV News.

According to official reports, the incident took place on Monday near a sensitive security checkpoint located along the Punjab–Khyber Pakhtunkhwa border in Jand, approximately 70 kilometres from Attock.

The martyred citizen, identified as Liaqat, was grazing his goats in the area when he noticed a suspicious individual moving near the security post. Witnesses said Liaqat, sensing unusual behaviour, courageously confronted the suspect and asked for identification. Moments later, the attacker detonated himself, resulting in Liaqat’s martyrdom and preventing a potentially larger tragedy.

A day earlier, both President Zardari and Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif paid tribute to Liaqat’s bravery and sacrifice in separate statements.

Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif said Liaqat displayed extraordinary courage and responsibility by stopping the terrorist despite the danger to his own life.

“Such brave and fearless citizens are the true symbol of the nation’s resolve against terrorism. Shaheed Liaqat’s sacrifice is a guiding light for every individual of the country,” the prime minister stated.

President Asif Ali Zardari also praised Liaqat’s heroism, describing brave citizens like him as shining examples of patriotism, national resilience, and collective vigilance against terrorism.

“The entire nation stands united with its security forces and law enforcement agencies for the elimination of terrorism. The war against terrorism backed by external support will continue,” the president said.

The incident has drawn widespread praise across the country, with many hailing Liaqat as a national hero whose sacrifice helped save countless innocent lives.