Attock Hero Nominated for Pakistan’s Highest Civil Award

Punjab Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz has nominated Muhammad Liaqat Ali, a railway employee from Attock, for Pakistan’s highest civil award after he lost his life while helping avert a suspected suicide attack near the Punjab-Khyber Pakhtunkhwa border. The incident took place in Jand tehsil, where Liaqat’s quick intervention reportedly stopped a bomber from reaching a nearby police post.

Officials said Liaqat was grazing his livestock close to the checkpost when he noticed and confronted the suspected attacker. His action disrupted the attacker’s movement and is believed to have prevented a far deadlier assault on security personnel and civilians in the area.

The episode has drawn national attention because it involved an ordinary citizen stepping into an extraordinary security situation without hesitation. Local authorities said the attempted attack could have caused major casualties had Liaqat not intervened at the critical moment.

Maryam Nawaz paid tribute to Liaqat’s sacrifice, describing him as a true national hero. Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif also praised his courage, saying the nation salutes the bravery and patriotism shown by a citizen who placed public safety above his own life.

Liaqat’s funeral was held at Police Lines Attock, where officials, residents and security personnel gathered to honour him. A police contingent was present at the ceremony, reflecting the seriousness with which authorities viewed his sacrifice.

Federal Minister for Railways Hanif Abbasi expressed condolences to the family and said the government would stand by them. He announced Rs8 million in compensation for Liaqat’s family, noting that the slain railway employee left behind a widow, two sons and a daughter.

The incident comes at a time when Pakistan is facing a renewed wave of militant violence, particularly around areas close to provincial borders and vulnerable security posts. Attacks on police and public spaces have placed additional pressure on law enforcement agencies to improve intelligence coordination and community-level vigilance.

For Pakistan, Liaqat’s sacrifice has become a powerful reminder of how civilian courage can play a role in national security. His story has resonated widely because it combines personal bravery, public duty and the human cost of terrorism.

Authorities are expected to complete formal procedures for the award nomination while continuing investigations into the attempted attack. The government’s next steps will likely focus on supporting the bereaved family, strengthening local security and ensuring Liaqat’s sacrifice is formally recognised at the national level.