In a dramatic turn of events, Pakistani Army Major Moiz Abbas Shah, the officer credited with capturing Indian Air Force pilot Abhinandan Varthaman during the 2019 aerial skirmish, was killed in a fierce gunbattle with Tehreek-e-Taliban Pakistan (TTP) militants in South Waziristan on June 24, 2025.
High-Profile Officer Falls in Anti-Terror Operation
Major Shah, a decorated member of Pakistan’s elite Special Services Group (SSG), was leading an intelligence-based operation (IBO) when his unit came under heavy fire from TTP insurgents. The clash resulted in the deaths of 11 militants and two Pakistani soldiers, including Shah and Lance Naik Jibran Ullah.
Known for Capturing Abhinandan in 2019
Shah rose to prominence in February 2019 after he reportedly took custody of Wing Commander Abhinandan Varthaman, whose MiG-21 Bison was shot down during an aerial dogfight following India’s Balakot airstrikes. Shah was said to have ensured the pilot’s safety amid a hostile crowd before handing him over to authorities.
TTP Resurgence Raises Security Concerns
The deadly encounter underscores the growing threat posed by the resurgent TTP, which has intensified attacks in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa and Balochistan. Pakistan’s military has blamed “Indian-sponsored” elements for fueling the insurgency—a claim India has consistently denied.
National Mourning and Military Tributes
Tributes poured in for Major Shah, who hailed from Chakwal and was known for his leadership in high-risk missions. The Inter-Services Public Relations (ISPR) praised his bravery, stating that clearance operations are ongoing to eliminate remaining militants in the area.
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