President approves Sitara-e-Shujaat on civilian who prevented suicide attack in Kohat

ISLAMABAD – President Asif Ali Zardari has approved the conferment of the Sitara-e-Shujaat on Liaqat Shaheed, a civilian who sacrificed his life while preventing a suicide attack near Kohat, in recognition of his courage and national service. The award was approved on the recommendation of Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif, an official statement confirmed. Paying tribute to the martyr, President Zardari said Liaqat Shaheed demonstrated exceptional bravery by confronting a suicide bomber and averting what could have been a major loss of innocent lives. He said the act of courage reflected a strong sense of duty and devotion to the country. The president added that the entire nation honours Liaqat Shaheed for his selfless sacrifice, calling him a symbol of courage and resilience. Security sources said the incident occurred in the inter-provincial area between Jand tehsil in Punjab and Khushal Garh Bridge in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, where the attacker, reportedly linked to Fitna al-Khawarij, was moving through a rural area. They said Liaqat, a retired employee of Pakistan Railways and a local resident, intercepted the suspect and asked for identification. Shortly afterwards, the attacker detonated explosives, resulting in the death of both Liaqat and the suicide bomber. Officials said Liaqat Shaheed’s timely action prevented a potential large-scale tragedy in the area. Meanwhile, Punjab Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz Sharif had earlier nominated Liaqat Shaheed for a high civil award, praising his sacrifice and describing him as a national hero who gave his life to protect others. She said such individuals represent the true spirit of bravery and patriotism. Five including 4 family members dead in suicide attack at Bannu police station