A major terrorist attack was carried out late on Saturday night in Pakistan’s north-western Khyber Pakhtunkhwa province, where militants targeted a security checkpoint in Bannu district. At least three police officers were killed in the suicide bombing and the subsequent exchange of gunfire, according to local authorities.
Powerful Explosion Destroys Security Post
Islamabad: Terrorists launched a coordinated assault on a security checkpoint in Bannu district, triggering a powerful explosion that completely destroyed the post and caused extensive damage to nearby residential properties. Officials confirmed that the attack was followed by intense gunfire between security personnel and the assailants.
Militants Used Drones During Assault
According to intelligence and police sources, the attackers initially detonated an explosives-laden vehicle near the checkpoint before heavily armed militants stormed the compound and opened fire. Authorities also confirmed the use of drones during the operation, highlighting the increasingly sophisticated tactics employed by militant groups in the region.
When reinforcement teams arrived to support the security personnel, the attackers reportedly launched an ambush, resulting in additional casualties.
Emergency Measures Implemented
Following the attack, an emergency was declared at government hospitals in Bannu, with ambulances transporting the injured for urgent medical treatment. Police official Zahid Khan stated that security forces continue to conduct search and clearance operations in the area, adding that the full scale of the destruction and casualties is still being assessed.
‘Ittihad-ul-Mujahideen’ Claims Responsibility
The terrorist alliance ‘Ittihad-ul-Mujahideen’ has claimed responsibility for the attack. The incident occurred in a region bordering Afghanistan, a sensitive area that has long witnessed militant activity and cross-border security concerns.
Pakistan has repeatedly accused authorities in Kabul of providing safe haven to militant groups operating along the border, allegations that the Taliban administration has consistently denied, maintaining that terrorism within Pakistan remains an internal security matter.
