Security forces stop terrorist attack in Bannu

During ongoing operations against militants in Bannu, the Counter-Terrorism Department’s Bannu region, in coordination with local police, carried out a successful intelligence-based operation (IBO), killing two terrorists.

Police and Counter-Terrorism Department teams conducted a successful operation in Bannu, killing two terrorists near Jhandokhel Road, close to Shagi Machankhel. Acting on credible intelligence, CTD Bannu SWAT teams, in coordination with local police, cordoned off the area and launched the action. The terrorists opened fire, prompting effective retaliation from security forces.

The slain terrorists were identified as Suhail Khan, alias Sangri, and Ismail, alias Usman. Police stated that both were involved in multiple attacks, including assaults on Sheikh Landik and Fateh Khel police check posts that injured eight constables. They were also linked to attacks on security convoys and an IED explosion at the under-construction Rescue 1122 building.

Authorities recovered two Kalashnikov rifles, a pistol, ammunition, a motorcycle, mobile phones, two national identity cards, and a TTP identification card from the terrorists. Inspector General of Police Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, Zulfiqar Hameed, and Additional IG CTD praised the Bannu Police and CTD teams for the operation. The IGP emphasized that intelligence-based targeted operations would continue until terrorism is fully eradicated.

Meanwhile, militants attacked the Nala Kasho police checkpost using light and heavy weapons. Quick response by police contingents from the Domel and Town Police Station foiled the attack.

Despite these successful operations, Pakistan experienced a sharp rise in militant violence in 2025. According to the Pakistan Security Report 2025 by the Pak Institute for Peace Studies, terrorist attacks increased by 34 percent, claiming 1,034 lives and injuring 1,366. The report highlighted a growing trend of militancy since the Taliban’s takeover of Afghanistan in 2021, underlining ongoing security challenges for the country.