At least 12 security personnel embraced martyrdom in a suicide attack in the Bannu district of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa. The incident occurred on November 19, as terrorists tried to strike a joint security post.
According to the ISPR, a group of militants attempted to attack the post in the Mali Khel area. During the exchange of gunfire, six of the terrorists were killed. The soldiers managed to prevent the militants from entering the base. However, the terrorists then rammed an explosive-laden vehicle into the perimeter wall of the post.
The explosion caused significant damage, including the collapse of part of the wall and destruction to nearby structures. Unfortunately, this tragic incident led to the martyrdom of 12 security personnel. Among the fallen heroes were ten soldiers from the regular army and two members of the Frontier Constabulary.
A security operation is currently underway in the region to clear out any remaining threats. The ISPR promised that those responsible for this brutal act would face justice. The statement further emphasized the determination of Pakistan’s security forces to defeat terrorism. “Such sacrifices of our brave men only strengthen our resolve,” it added.
The President of Pakistan, Asif Ali Zardari, expressed his condolences and paid tribute to the fallen soldiers. He praised their ultimate sacrifice for the nation’s security. Zardari also extended prayers for the martyrs and reassured the nation that the fight against terrorism would continue.
This deadly attack is part of a troubling rise in terrorist violence across the country. Recent months have seen an increase in attacks targeting both civilians and security forces, especially in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa and Balochistan. Earlier in the month, a suicide bombing in Quetta claimed the lives of at least 27 people and injured over 60 others.
In response to the rising violence, the civil-military Apex Committee approved a military operation in Balochistan. This operation targets terrorist groups like the Majeed Brigade, BLA, BLF, and BRAS, who are causing instability in the region. These groups are believed to be acting under the influence of hostile foreign powers to disrupt Pakistan’s progress.
The United States condemned the rise in terrorism within Pakistan. The US highlighted the challenges posed by cross-border militancy and reiterated its commitment to working with Pakistan to address these threats. US officials have emphasized the importance of their counterterrorism partnership with Pakistan, which includes high-level talks on tackling terrorism.
This terrorist attack in Bannu is another painful reminder of the persistent threat of terrorism in Pakistan. The country remains resolute in its fight to eliminate these extremists and restore peace.
