- Thirteen civilians and five soldiers killed in Bannu suicide bombing.
- Four suicide bombers carried out the attack near Afghanistan border.
- Violence follows a rise in militant activity in Pakistan’s Khyber Pakhtunkhwa.
- Attack claimed by faction of Hafiz Gul Bahadur group.
- Pakistan calls on Afghan government to prevent cross-border terrorism.
A deadly suicide bombing on Tuesday in Bannu, a district in Pakistan’s volatile Khyber Pakhtunkhwa province, left at least 18 people dead, including five soldiers and 13 civilians. The attack, which involved four suicide bombers, occurred at a military compound located near Pakistan’s border with Afghanistan, escalating concerns over security in the region.
The bombers, driving explosive-laden vehicles, targeted the compound early on Tuesday. Explosions sent plumes of smoke into the sky, followed by intense gunfire that continued well into the early hours of Wednesday morning. The military reported that all attackers were eliminated following a prolonged operation, but not before claiming several lives, including four children and three women.
Attack Details and Impact
Pakhtoon Yar Khan, a provincial minister, confirmed that assailants attacked Bannu Cantt from two different directions. This sparked a fierce gun battle with Pakistani security forces. As a result, 13 civilians died, including four children. In addition, five soldiers lost their lives. Furthermore, the blast caused severe damage to a mosque and nearby residential areas.
According to Nadir Ali Shah, a 40-year-old survivor, the scene was catastrophic. He recalled, “The explosions created two large craters, and the destruction was extensive. It was a scene of apocalyptic devastation.” Nadir, who suffered injuries from the blast, is now being treated in the hospital.
Meanwhile, the military issued a statement praising the soldiers’ “heroic” actions. They honored the soldiers’ sacrifice in defending the compound. Additionally, the statement reported 16 terrorists killed, including four suicide bombers. Moreover, it confirmed that the attack was “orchestrated and directed” by militant leaders based in Afghanistan.
The Role of Hafiz Gul Bahadur Group
The attack was claimed by a faction of the Hafiz Gul Bahadur group, a militant group that has long supported the Afghan Taliban in its previous war against NATO forces. The group is notorious for carrying out similar attacks in the region, including a car bomb attack on the same military compound last July that killed eight soldiers.
Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif condemned the attack, calling the assailants “cowardly terrorists” who targeted civilians during the holy month of Ramadan. “They deserve no mercy,” Sharif stated, vowing that Pakistan would continue its fight against terrorism.
Pakistan’s Growing Security Concerns
The recent attack sheds light on a troubling trend of violence in Pakistan. This surge has become even more concerning since the Taliban regained power in Afghanistan in August 2021. As a result, the Pakistani military has frequently blamed the Afghan government for not preventing militants from using Afghan soil to target Pakistan.
Given this, the situation has understandably raised serious concerns in Islamabad. The Pakistani military has confirmed that Afghan nationals played a role in this attack. In fact, a military spokesperson stated, “We expect the Interim Afghan Government to uphold its responsibilities and prevent terrorism from spilling over into Pakistan.”
Moreover, this violence has sparked fears of continued instability, especially along Pakistan’s border regions. Militant groups seem to operate without hindrance in these areas, making the situation even more alarming. Last year, over 1,600 people were killed in attacks, marking the deadliest year in a decade, according to the Center for Research and Security Studies.
A Growing Crisis on the Border
The recent attack highlights the increasing militancy in the border areas between Pakistan and Afghanistan. For years, these regions have been a safe zone for militant groups. With the Taliban back in power, these factions have gained confidence. Although the Afghan Taliban denies supporting terrorist groups, Pakistan argues they let anti-Pakistan militants operate with little interference.
In the wake of the deadly attack, thousands gathered in Bannu to pay their respects. A large funeral procession took place for 12 civilians. It occurred at a sports complex in Bannu, where local residents, security officials, and political figures mourned the tragic loss of life.
This attack serves as a stark reminder of Pakistan’s ongoing security struggles, particularly in its border regions. As violence continues to escalate, it’s still unclear how the Pakistani government and Afghan Taliban will address the growing militancy.