PM, military leadership attend funeral prayers of MI-17 crash martyrs

• PM Shehbaz, Field Marshal Asim Munir attend Namaz-e-Janaza of Shuhada at Chaklala Garrison

 RAWALPINDI: The Namaz-e-Janaza for the Shuhada who embraced martyrdom on Wednesday in a tragic Mi-17 helicopter crash in Muzaffarabad was offered on Thursday at Chaklala Garrison, Rawalpindi, according to the Inter-Services Public Relations (ISPR).

The funeral prayers were attended by Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif, Chief of Army Staff and Chief of Defence Forces Field Marshal Syed Asim Munir, the Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister, the Defence Minister, the Information Minister, senior civil and military officials, relatives of the Shuhada, and members of society, the ISPR said in a statement.

Earlier, funeral services of two martyred Christian soldiers were held at Christ Church, Rawalpindi, which were also attended by political and military leadership. 

Martyrs’ devotion to duty source of inspiration for future generations: PM

Speaking on the occasion, the Prime Minister said that the martyrs’ devotion to duty, professionalism and commitment to safeguarding the motherland would remain a source of inspiration for future generations.

He said the sacrifices of Pakistan’s Armed Forces for peace, security and national sovereignty could never be forgotten, reaffirming the nation’s unwavering support for the families of the martyrs in this difficult time.

The Shuhada will be laid to rest in their respective native towns with full military honours.

On Wednesday, the Pakistan Army said an Mi-17 helicopter of Army Aviation crashed in Muzaffarabad, the capital of Azad Jammu and Kashmir, killing all personnel on board.

According to ISPR, the helicopter crashed during take-off due to a technical fault, and no survivors were reported. It added that all personnel on board embraced shahadat.

Rescue and recovery teams immediately reached the crash site, while a board of inquiry has been ordered to determine the exact technical cause of the accident.

Chief of Defence Forces and Chief of Army Staff Field Marshal Syed Asim Munir, along with all ranks of the Pakistan Army, expressed deep grief over the loss of precious lives and extended heartfelt condolences to the bereaved families.