Bannu: Two militants were killed and several others escaped after attacking a police mobile on Domel Chashmi Road in Bannu district, officials said on Thursday. The attack occurred as the police vehicle was on routine patrol, prompting a swift and effective response from the security personnel.
According to Deputy Inspector General (DIG) of Police, the militants opened fire on the police mobile, triggering an exchange of gunfire. The police retaliated immediately, killing two terrorists in the firefight. The remaining militants fled the scene, abandoning the bodies of their fallen comrades.
“The terrorists attacked the police mobile, but our forces responded swiftly and effectively,” the DIG said. “In the ensuing exchange of fire, two terrorists were killed, and the rest fled, leaving behind the bodies of their associates.”
Security forces quickly cordoned off the area following the incident to prevent any further movement by the militants and to secure the site for investigation. A search operation was launched in nearby localities to track down the fleeing terrorists and ensure the safety of civilians.
The identities of the killed militants have not yet been confirmed, but officials said that further investigation and forensic procedures would be carried out to establish their backgrounds and possible links to terrorist networks.
The attack comes amid ongoing security challenges in Bannu, a district that has previously witnessed militant activity due to its proximity to tribal and border areas. Authorities have been conducting continuous counterterrorism operations in the region to eliminate militant hideouts and disrupt extremist networks.
In a separate incident, unknown assailants targeted a communication bridge in Miryan, detonating explosive material placed under the structure. The blast damaged the bridge, raising concerns over the safety of the vital route and the possibility of further sabotage.
According to initial reports, the explosive device was planted beneath the bridge and detonated remotely. Authorities have not yet confirmed whether the incident was linked to the attack on the police mobile, but security agencies have launched an investigation to determine the perpetrators and their motives.
The bridge attack caused disruption in connectivity, although there were no immediate reports of casualties. Local authorities said that traffic was diverted and repair work would begin once the area was secured.
Security officials have urged residents to remain vigilant and report any suspicious activities, particularly along key routes and public infrastructure. The recent incidents highlight the ongoing threat posed by militant groups in the region and the need for sustained counterterrorism efforts.
Law enforcement agencies have reiterated their commitment to maintaining law and order and ensuring the safety of citizens. “We will not allow terrorists to disrupt peace in the district,” a senior official said. “Our forces are fully prepared to respond to any threat.”
The attacks have also raised questions about the security of critical infrastructure, such as bridges and communication routes, which are vital for movement and trade. Authorities have been advised to enhance surveillance and protection measures in vulnerable areas to prevent future sabotage.
Local residents expressed concern but also confidence in the security forces. “We are worried about these attacks, but we trust the police and security agencies,” said a local shopkeeper. “They have been working hard to keep us safe.”
The authorities have not yet released details about any arrests or progress in the investigations. However, the security operation in Bannu remains ongoing, with additional forces deployed to the area to strengthen security and prevent any further attacks.
As investigations continue, officials have called for cooperation from the public and stressed that anyone with information about the attackers or the bridge blast should come forward. “Information from citizens is crucial for us to prevent such incidents,” the DIG said.
The incidents in Bannu and Miryan come at a time when security forces are intensifying operations across the region to eliminate extremist threats. Analysts say that while these operations have weakened militant networks, sporadic attacks continue to pose challenges in remote areas.
