Chadi Hajj, a 28 year old sergeant in Lebanon’s Internal Security Forces died on Monday after being shot in the chest during an attempt to arrest suspected car thieves, north of Beirut, according to The Daily Star.
In a statement to Annahar newspaper, a source from the Internal Security said, "the aim was to arrest members of a gang, who operate in the new Roueissat area, they steal cars and then move them to the eastern Bekaa Valley."
The source added that the operation had resulted in Hajj's death and left another sergeant injured.
During the operation the suspects tried to flee, crashing one of their cars into a civilian vehicle and an ISF vehicle. Policemen then opened fire, wounding 35-year-old S.D., and N.D., 28. They were both admitted to hospital but the former succumbed to his wounds.
Monday’s operation came a few weeks after government forces carried out several raids in Beirut's southern suburb and east Lebanon, The Daily Star reported.
Hajj's funeral was held this morning and he will be buried in his hometown of Bka'atouta in Keserouan.
Following his death, thousands paid their respects to Hajj on Twitter through the hashtags: #استشهادك_يحيينا (Your martyrdom keeps us alive) and #شادي_الحاج (Chadi Hajj).
Many also expressed outrage over criminal gangs continuing to freely operate in areas that are extremely difficult to raid by police units due to cover/support from political parties.
"Tears and anger at Chadi Hajj's funeral"
ISF's Official Twitter page shared Hajj's biography and achievements
Many expressed their anger
"Unfortunately we're losing exemplary young people to a group of undeserving outlaws..."
"Till when? Martyr after martyr dying inside their country, not in wars, not on the front lines. Gangs, outlaws and chaos, till when?
Others hailed Hajj for his bravery
"We lost our cars, you lost your life trying to bring those criminals to justice, God bless your soul and give your family peace. You're a hero, we pray for your soul."
"A career filled with brave achievements."
And paid their respects
"Rest in peace, hero."
"God bless your soul sergeant Chadi Hajj, may he provide your family with patience during this difficult time."