Pakistan Major Who Captured IAF Pilot Abhinandan Killed Near Afghan Border
Major Syed Moiz Abbas Shah, a Pakistan Army officer known for capturing Indian Air Force pilot Wing Commander Abhinandan Varthaman in 2019, was killed during a confrontation with Tehrik-e-Taliban Pakistan (TTP) militants in South Waziristan near the Afghan border.
Details of the Fatal Encounter
The Inter-Services Public Relations (ISPR) confirmed that Major Shah lost his life alongside Lance Naik Jibran Ullah while conducting an operation against TTP militants in the Sararogha area. The operation also resulted in the deaths of 11 TTP militants and left seven others wounded.
Honoring a Fallen Hero
Major Shah’s funeral prayers took place at Chaklala Garrison in Rawalpindi, where Pakistan Army Chief General Asim Munir paid his respects. The ISPR quoted General Munir praising Major Shah’s bravery and dedication, highlighting his sacrifice as embodying the highest traditions of patriotism and valor.
Following the funeral, Major Shah's body was flown to his hometown in Chakwal, Punjab, where he was laid to rest with full military honors.
A Glimpse into Major Shah’s Notable Past
Major Shah gained public recognition after the 2019 aerial skirmish between India and Pakistan. During this conflict, Wing Commander Abhinandan Varthaman shot down a Pakistani F-16 before his own MiG-21 was damaged, leading to his capture by Major Shah. Abhinandan was held in Pakistan for three days before being released, a moment documented in a resurfaced interview where Major Shah recounted the capture.
Understanding the Threat: Tehrik-e-Taliban Pakistan (TTP)
The militant group responsible for the clash, TTP, emerged in 2007 as an umbrella organization for several extremist factions. Their primary aim is to enforce a rigid interpretation of Islamic law across Pakistan.
Often linked with al-Qaeda, TTP has orchestrated numerous violent attacks, including the 2009 assault on Pakistan’s army headquarters, attacks on multiple military installations, and the infamous 2008 Marriott Hotel bombing in Islamabad. Pakistan officially labels the group as "Fitna al-Khawarij," alluding to a historically rebellious sect known for violent uprisings.
