Pakistani Officer Killed in TTP Encounter in Waziristan
A significant development has emerged from Waziristan, Pakistan, where Major Moiz Abbas Shah of the Pakistani military was killed during an encounter with Tehrik-e-Taliban Pakistan (TTP). He was reportedly involved in the apprehension of Indian Wing Commander Abhinandan Varthaman following the Balakot airstrike in 2019.
ISPR Confirms Casualties, Reports 11 Terrorist Deaths
The Inter-Services Public Relations (ISPR), Pakistan’s military media wing, confirmed on June 24, 2025, that a security operation was launched in the Sarooga area of South Waziristan, Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, based on intelligence. During the operation, Major Moiz Abbas Shah and Lance Naik Zibran were martyred. The military stated that 11 TTP terrorists were also killed in the ensuing engagement.
Major Shah’s Involvement in Multiple Operations Against TTP
According to ISPR, Major Moiz Abbas Shah was known for his courageous contributions to numerous operations within Pakistan targeting terrorists. The military has paid tribute to him, describing him as a martyr for the country.
Increased Tensions Following the Balakot Strike (2019)
On February 14, 2019, a suicide attack by Jaish-e-Mohammad in Pulwama resulted in the martyrdom of 40 CRPF (Central Reserve Police Force) personnel. In response, India conducted an airstrike on Jaish terrorist camps in Balakot on February 26. The Indian Air Force clarified that the operation was targeted at terrorist infrastructure and not against any country.
Wing Commander Abhinandan’s Bravery
Pakistan retaliated on February 27. During this attempt, Wing Commander Abhinandan Varthaman, piloting a MiG-21 Bison, successfully pursued and downed a Pakistani F-16 aircraft. However, during the dogfight, his MiG-21 crashed, and he was forced to eject, landing in Pakistan-administered Kashmir (PoK) via parachute.
Custody in PoK
Upon landing in PoK, Wing Commander Abhinandan was attacked by a local crowd. He defended himself, firing a few shots from his service revolver, but was subsequently taken into custody by the Pakistani army. Later, the Pakistani army released a video showing Abhinandan calmly answering questions, which exemplified the Indian Air Force’s discipline and courage worldwide.
Questions Surrounding Major Shah’s Role in Abhinandan’s Capture
Claims were made in Pakistan that Major Moiz Abbas Shah was responsible for capturing Abhinandan in a wounded state. India did not officially respond to these claims. Now, the same officer has been killed in an attack by the TTP in Pakistan.
