Suicide attack martyrs 12 security personnel in Bannu: ISPR
1. Six terrorists killed in "attempt to attack Joint Check Post" in Bannu's Mali Khel, says ISPR
At least 12 security personnel were killed in a suicide attack in Bannu, Khyber Pakhtunkhwa (KP), the Inter-Services Public Relations (ISPR) reported on Wednesday.
According to a statement from the military's media wing, the incident occurred on November 19 when terrorists, referred to as "khawarij," attempted to target a joint security post in Mali Khel.
"In the ensuing exchange of fire, six terrorists were eliminated," the statement said, noting that the attackers were prevented from entering the post. In a final act, they rammed an explosive-laden vehicle into the perimeter wall, causing significant damage.
The suicide blast led to the collapse of part of the perimeter wall and damaged nearby infrastructure. This tragic event claimed the lives of 12 personnel, including ten soldiers and two members of the Frontier Constabulary.
A sanitization operation is ongoing in the area to apprehend those responsible for this heinous act. The ISPR reiterated that Pakistan’s security forces and law enforcement agencies remain committed to eradicating terrorism, emphasizing that the sacrifices of brave personnel only strengthen their resolve.
President Asif Ali Zardari paid tribute to the fallen soldiers, acknowledging their ultimate sacrifice in defending the homeland. He expressed deep condolences to their families and reiterated the nation’s determination to eliminate terrorism. He also offered prayers for the martyrs' elevated ranks in the afterlife.
Pakistan has been grappling with a surge in terror attacks targeting both security forces and civilians, particularly in KP and Balochistan. Earlier this month, a suicide bombing at Quetta's railway station killed at least 27 people and injured over 60 others.
In response to the growing violence in Balochistan, the Apex Committee—a civil-military body—recently approved a comprehensive military operation against militant groups such as the Majeed Brigade, BLA, BLF, and BRAS. These groups have been accused of targeting civilians and foreign nationals to undermine Pakistan’s stability and economic progress at the behest of external adversaries.
A report by the Centre for Research and Security Studies (CRSS) highlighted a 90% rise in fatalities from terrorism and counterterrorism operations in the third quarter of 2024. KP and Balochistan accounted for 97% of these fatalities, underscoring the ongoing challenges in areas bordering Afghanistan.
Despite the Taliban’s assurances to curb cross-border terrorism, militant groups continue to exploit the porous border for attacks. The United States has also condemned the recent wave of violence in Pakistan, including the abduction of police officers in Bannu and an ambush on a military convoy near the Afghan border.
Washington emphasized its commitment to a bilateral counterterrorism partnership with Pakistan, stating, "We continue to have an important bilateral counterterrorism partnership with the Government of Pakistan, which includes regular high-level dialogues."
