Attock Hero Liaqat Shaheed Honoured for Foiling Suicide Attack

President Asif Ali Zardari has approved the conferment of Sitara-e-Shujaat on Liaqat Shaheed, an Attock resident who sacrificed his life while stopping a suicide attacker. The approval, announced on Wednesday in Islamabad, came on the recommendation of Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif and has turned the citizen’s act of courage into a major national story.

Liaqat Shaheed, identified as the son of Kareem Elahi, is being honoured for confronting a suicide terrorist and helping prevent a potentially devastating attack. Officials described his action as an extraordinary example of public bravery at a time when ordinary citizens and security personnel continue to face the threat of terrorism in different parts of the country.

The case has drawn wide attention because the award is not being presented only as a symbolic gesture, but as formal state recognition of a civilian who acted in the public interest despite extreme personal danger. His sacrifice is being acknowledged as a moment that saved precious lives and reflected the resilience of communities living close to vulnerable security zones.

According to the official account reported by Dunya News, the president approved the award after the prime minister recommended that Liaqat’s courage be recognised at the highest level. The government described his sense of duty and sacrifice as an example for the nation, while also underlining that his action represented Pakistan’s collective resolve against terrorism.

Sitara-e-Shujaat is among Pakistan’s most important civilian honours for bravery and is awarded to people who demonstrate exceptional courage in circumstances involving serious danger. In Liaqat Shaheed’s case, the honour carries added emotional weight because it will be received by his family after his death rather than by the citizen himself.

The family of Liaqat Shaheed has travelled to Islamabad to receive the award. His mother, son and brother are expected to accept the Sitara-e-Shujaat from the president, while officials have provided them formal protocol during the journey, including facilitation by the Assistant Commissioner of Jand and security support from an elite force unit.

The recognition also comes amid renewed public concern over militant violence and the human cost borne by local communities. Civilian acts of resistance often remain overshadowed by official security operations, but this case has brought attention to the role of citizens who respond instantly when confronted by threats to public safety.

For Pakistan, the award sends a broader message that sacrifices made by ordinary people will not be ignored. At a social level, the story has resonated because it combines grief, courage and national duty, showing how one person’s decision at a critical moment can protect many others from tragedy.

The next step will be the formal award ceremony in Islamabad, where Liaqat Shaheed’s family will receive the honour on his behalf. Beyond the ceremony, the case is likely to remain a powerful reminder of civilian bravery and the continued need for vigilance, unity and institutional support for families affected by terrorism.