Six terrorists from the banned Tehreek-i-Taliban Pakistan (TTP) were killed on Tuesday as security forces successfully repelled an attack on Bannu Cantonment in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, according to the Interior Ministry. The incident, involving suicide bombers and armed militants, resulted in multiple casualties, including civilians.
Attack on Bannu Cantonment
Security officials reported that the attack began when two suicide bombers rammed explosives-laden vehicles into the entrance of Bannu Cantonment, triggering massive explosions. Armed terrorists then attempted to storm the compound, but security forces engaged them in a gunfight, eliminating all six attackers.
Videos circulating online showed thick plumes of smoke rising above the cantonment, with gunfire heard in the background. According to a senior police official, the swift response of the security forces prevented further devastation.
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Civilian Casualties and Rescue Efforts
The attack caused significant collateral damage, including the collapse of nearby buildings and a mosque, leading to civilian casualties. Bannu Rescue 1122 reported moving 11 bodies and 30 injured individuals to hospitals. Meanwhile, District Headquarters Hospital confirmed receiving 12 civilian bodies and treating 30 injured. Authorities declared an emergency at all district hospitals, recalling medical staff to handle the situation.
Government and Military Response
Interior Minister Mohsin Naqvi praised the security forces for their swift and professional response. He also expressed sorrow over the loss of civilian lives and extended condolences to the affected families. Khyber Pakhtunkhwa government spokesperson Barrister Saif stated that the attack was a failure due to the timely intervention of security forces.
Chief Minister Ali Amin Gandapur ordered an inquiry into the incident and instructed local authorities to provide immediate medical assistance to the injured. He condemned the attack, calling it a tragic act of violence, especially during the holy month of Ramazan.
TTP’s Hafiz Gul Bahadur Group Claims Responsibility
The Afghanistan-based Hafiz Gul Bahadur (HGB) faction of the TTP claimed responsibility for the attack. The Inter-Services Public Relations (ISPR) has yet to issue an official statement regarding the incident.
Rising Terror Threat in Pakistan
This attack comes amid a surge in terrorist activities, particularly in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa and Balochistan, following the TTP’s decision to end its ceasefire with the government in November 2022.
A report by the Pakistan Institute for Conflict and Security Studies (PICSS) highlighted a recent increase in terrorist incidents. In February alone, Pakistan witnessed 79 attacks, resulting in 55 civilian and 47 security personnel deaths, with many others injured. Security forces responded by eliminating 156 terrorists, injuring 20, and arresting 66.
Previous Attacks on Bannu Cantonment
This is not the first time Bannu Cantonment has been targeted. In July 2024, a similar attack by the Hafiz Gul Bahadur group resulted in the deaths of eight security personnel, while 10 terrorists were killed in retaliatory action.
Calls for National Unity and Stronger Security Measures
In response to the latest attack, KP Governor Faisal Karim Kundi and Federal Minister for States and Frontier Regions Amir Muqam called for national unity against terrorism. They condemned the violence and stressed the need for stronger counterterrorism measures.
Pakistan continues to face a growing security challenge, and authorities remain on high alert to prevent future attacks.
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