The funeral prayer of Major Syed Muiz Abbas Shah was offered at Chaklala Garrison in Rawalpindi, the Inter-Services Public Relations (ISPR) said in a statement issued on Wednesday.

Chief of Army Staff Field Marshal Asim Munir attended the funeral, along with the Interior Minister, senior serving military officers, civil officials, and soldiers.

Paying tribute to the martyr, Field Marshal Asim Munir said that Major Muiz Abbas Shah courageously fought and resisted the enemy with exceptional bravery.

Major Muiz Abbas Shah was martyred in South Waziristan during an operation against the Khawarij militants.

The nation honors his supreme sacrifice in the line of duty to safeguard Pakistan’s security and sovereignty.

Security forces carried out a major intelligence-based operation in the Sararogha area of South Waziristan, killing 11 Indian-backed militants (Khawarij) and injuring seven others, according to the Inter-Services Public Relations (ISPR).

During the intense exchange of fire, two brave soldiers of the nation — Major Syed Muiz Abbas Shah and Lance Naik Jabranullah — embraced martyrdom while valiantly fighting the enemy.

Major Moiz Abbas Shah captured IAF pilot Abhinandan Varthaman

Major Moiz Abbas Shah Shaheed is the same courageous officer before whom Indian Air Force pilot Abhinandan Varthaman famously surrendered in February 2019.

According to the military’s media wing, 37-year-old Major Muiz Abbas Shah, who hailed from Chakwal, dedicated 14 years to the defense of Pakistan. His heroic act in 2019, when he confronted the captured Indian pilot, made global headlines.

In a recorded account, Major Muiz had recalled the moment of surrender:
"As soon as I approached him, he looked at my rank and immediately said, ‘Captain, I am Indian Air Force Wing Commander 27981 Abhinandan Varthaman, and I surrender. Please save me.’ At that moment, it became my professional obligation to ensure his safety."

Major Muiz leaves behind a grieving wife and two young sons.
Lance Naik Jabranullah Shaheed, a 27-year-old from Bannu, served the nation for eight years and is survived by his wife and three sons.

President, PM pay tribute:

President Asif Ali Zardari, Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif, and Interior Minister Mohsin Naqvi lauded the security forces for the successful operation and paid rich tribute to the martyrs.

The national leadership stated that the sacrifices of the soldiers and their families are a source of pride for the entire nation. Their martyrdom will not go in vain, and the whole nation stands firmly with its armed forces in the defense of Pakistan.

Security forces remain committed to eradicating terrorism and ensuring that Pakistan remains a cradle of peace.