12 Security Personnel Martyred in Bannu Suicide Attack
The Inter-Services Public Relations (ISPR) reported on Wednesday that a suicide attack in Bannu district, Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, claimed the lives of 12 security personnel.
The military’s media wing revealed that terrorists, referred to as “khawarij,” targeted a joint check post in Mali Khel on November 19. During the attack, six terrorists were neutralized in a firefight after their attempt to infiltrate the post was thwarted. In a desperate move, the attackers rammed an explosive-laden vehicle into the perimeter wall, causing significant damage.
The explosion led to the collapse of a section of the wall and inflicted damage on nearby infrastructure. Tragically, 12 personnel were martyred, including ten soldiers and two Frontier Constabulary members.
In response, a sanitization operation has been launched in the area, with the ISPR vowing to bring the perpetrators to justice. “Such sacrifices of our brave men only strengthen our resolve to eliminate the menace of terrorism,” the statement affirmed.
Tributes from Leadership
President Asif Ali Zardari honored the martyred personnel, praising their sacrifice for the nation’s security and reaffirming Pakistan’s commitment to eradicating terrorism. He offered prayers for the martyrs and expressed condolences to their families.
Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif also paid tribute, emphasizing that the sacrifices of the country’s brave soldiers would not go in vain. He warned that those threatening public safety would face severe consequences and reiterated the government’s unwavering resolve to combat terrorism until its complete eradication.
Rising Terror Threats
Pakistan has witnessed a surge in terrorist attacks, particularly in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa and Balochistan. Last month, a suicide bombing at Quetta’s railway station claimed at least 27 lives, with over 60 injured.
In response to the escalating violence, the Apex Committee recently approved a military operation targeting terrorist groups in Balochistan, including the BLA, BLF, BRAS, and the Majeed Brigade.
A report by the Centre for Research and Security Studies (CRSS) highlighted a 90% increase in fatalities linked to terrorist violence and counterterrorism operations in the third quarter of 2024, with KP and Balochistan accounting for the majority of casualties.
Despite assurances from Afghanistan’s Taliban government to curb cross-border terrorism, militant groups continue to exploit the porous border, posing significant challenges to Pakistan’s security forces.
The United States has also condemned the surge in terror attacks, emphasizing its partnership with Pakistan in combating these threats.
