'As soon as I found out about Mehran airbase attack, I knew my son was gone'

Lieutenant Yasir stalled attackers for about 12 min to save the lives of others but lost his own in the line of duty.

KARACHI: "As soon as I found out about the attack on Pakistan Navy’s airbase PNS Mehran in Karachi, I knew my son was gone," stated the grief-stricken father of the late Lieutenant Yasir Abbas who sacrificed his life trying to save others during the brazen attack.

Three years ago on this day the devastating tragedy, in which at least 10 security personnel lost their lives, took place. Terrorists slipped into the airbase on May 22, 2011 destroying two P3-C Orion surveillance aircraft and holding off military commandos for 15 hours. Investigators had earlier claimed that there might be an inside job in the attack. According to their report, some navy officials might have had a possible connection with the attackers.

Express News reported that Yasir stalled the attackers for about 12 minutes during which the Chinese engineers present at the airbase as well as the sensitive equipment were shifted to a safe location.

According to Express News, the brave soldier received three bullets in his chest, which caused his death. The government had awarded Sitara-e-Basalat, a military award for good conduct and bravery, to the late lieutenant.

Yasir's mother, overwhelmed with sorrow, said she still feels his presence around her. "Many members of our family have also seen him in their dreams; I saw him in my dreams initially but then he stopped appearing as he knows it hurts me," she said.

The mother said that even though Yasir has left her, he still cares for his family.

As tears ran down her cheeks, the deceased officer's sister said that she had a special bond with her brother who was like a friend to her, adding that she was extremely attached to him.

She also said that they had had an amazing childhood together.