Security forces successfully repelled a terrorist attack on Bannu Cantonment in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa on March 4, eliminating all 16 assailants, according to a statement from the Inter-Services Public Relations (ISPR) on Wednesday.
During the intense exchange of fire, five soldiers embraced martyrdom while displaying remarkable bravery in defending the facility. Tragically, 13 civilians also lost their lives, and 32 others sustained injuries due to multiple suicide blasts that caused destruction in the area.
According to ISPR, the attack was launched by militants attempting to breach the cantonment’s security perimeter. In an act of desperation, they drove two explosive-laden vehicles into the boundary wall. However, the vigilant response of security forces thwarted their plans, neutralizing all 16 terrorists, including four suicide bombers.
The suicide bombings led to the partial collapse of the perimeter wall, damaging nearby infrastructure. A mosque and a civilian residential building were severely affected, resulting in additional casualties.
Intelligence reports confirmed the direct involvement of Afghan nationals in the attack, with evidence indicating that the assault was planned and executed by militant leaders operating from Afghanistan. ISPR stressed that Pakistan expects the interim Afghan government to prevent its territory from being used for terrorist activities against Pakistan. Additionally, Pakistan reserves the right to take necessary measures to counter threats emerging from across the border.
The military reaffirmed its commitment to eradicating terrorism, stating that the sacrifices of soldiers and civilians further strengthen the resolve to protect the nation.
Prime Minister Commends Security Forces
Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif praised security forces for their swift and effective action against the militants, commending their courage and dedication. He paid tribute to the five fallen soldiers and offered condolences to their families, acknowledging their ultimate sacrifice for the nation’s safety.
The premier highlighted that the security personnel prevented a significant national tragedy by neutralizing the terrorists before they could inflict further harm. He reiterated Pakistan’s firm stance against terrorism, emphasizing that the armed forces serve as an unbreakable shield against such threats, with the entire nation standing behind them.
Escalating Security Concerns
The attack follows a recent suicide bombing at a religious school in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa that claimed six lives, with Taliban figures reportedly among the attendees. Such incidents have increased since the Taliban took control of Afghanistan in August 2021.
Pakistan has repeatedly urged Afghan authorities to prevent their soil from being used by terrorist groups such as the Tehreek-e-Taliban Pakistan (TTP) for cross-border attacks, a claim the Afghan administration continues to deny. Despite diplomatic efforts, security forces remain engaged in counterterrorism operations, eliminating militants and preventing infiltration attempts.
A report submitted to the United Nations Security Council (UNSC) by the Analytical Support and Sanctions Monitoring Team has corroborated Pakistan’s concerns, revealing links between Kabul and the TTP, with the latter receiving logistical, operational, and financial support.
