The abduction and murder of a Kashmiri army officer by terrorists in Shopian is a dastardly act of cowardice, Defence Minister Arun Jaitley said on Wednesday.

 Expressing anguish over the killing of 23-year-old Lt Ummer Fayaz, Jaitley conveyed his condolences to the family and said he would continue to inspire youth from the Valley.

 Jaitley said Fayaz’s sacrifice reiterates the nation’s commitment to eliminate terrorism from the Valley. 

About Lt Ummer Fayaz

Fayaz, a resident of Kulgam, who had been commissioned in the army only five months ago in December 2016, was set to head for the Young Officers Course in September this year. 

“He was part of the Hockey Team of NDA, excellent volleyball player. He was physically tough and the troops enjoyed being with him,” the Army said.

How the incident took place

Police said that Fayaz, from RAJRIF unit in Akhnoor, had gone to Shopian to attend the marriage function of a relative. He was then abducted by terrorists and his bullet riddled body was found at Harmen on Wednesday morning. 

His mortal remains underwent post-mortem at the District Hospital in Shopian and were subsequently brought to Sursun for burial with full military honours, reported Deccan Chronicle.