In a significant security operation on Friday, law enforcement agencies in Bannu managed to prevent a potentially devastating terror attack by safely defusing multiple improvised explosive devices (IEDs) planted in critical locations. The devices were discovered within the jurisdictions of the Baka Khel and Kaki police stations, areas that have recently been under heightened threat from militant activities.
Authorities revealed that two IEDs, each containing over 140 kilograms of explosives, were found and neutralised in the Baka Khel area. Meanwhile, another device weighing approximately eight kilograms was safely dismantled in Kaki. These bombs had been strategically placed near a bridge on the busy Bannu–Miranshah Road and inside a bustling local market, locations that, if targeted, could have resulted in catastrophic loss of life and widespread destruction.
The swift action came after early-morning intelligence reports alerted security agencies to the imminent threat. In response, specialized teams led by the Sub-Divisional Police Officers (SDPOs) and the Deputy Superintendent of Police (DSP) of the Counter Terrorism Department (CTD) Bannu were immediately deployed. The operation was conducted under the direct supervision of the District Police Officer (DPO) Bannu, with support from the district police force, the Rapid Response Force (RRF), CTD units from Swat, and the Bomb Disposal Squad.
During the operation, drone surveillance played a crucial role in monitoring the area. At one point, three suspects, believed to be attempting to remotely detonate the explosives, engaged the police in a brief firefight before fleeing into nearby bushes. Despite this confrontation, the security teams successfully secured the sites and dismantled the bombs without any casualties, thereby averting a major tragedy.
Inspector General of Police Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, Zulfiqar Hameed, lauded the professionalism and bravery displayed by the Bannu police team in this intelligence-driven operation. He announced a reward as recognition for their efforts in safeguarding the community. Similarly, the Deputy Inspector General (DIG) of the Bannu Region praised the coordinated response and the efficiency with which the threat was neutralized.
In a related and deeply troubling incident, three brothers, all government employees, were abducted in a violent attack within the limits of the Cantt Police Station area in Bannu. The brothers—Saeed Akhtar, an operator at the Commissioner’s Office; Amjad Khan, a police constable with the SDW Elite Force; and Hazratullah, also a police constable serving with the SDW Commissioner Squad—were taken from a mosque during evening prayers.
The incident took place in the Sokari Hassan Khel neighborhood, where the brothers were performing Isha and Taraweeh prayers. A group of ten to twelve armed militants stormed the mosque, showing blatant disregard for the sanctity of the place and the ongoing religious observances. They forcibly abducted the men and transported them away in a vehicle to an unknown location. Tragically, the bodies of two of the brothers were later found abandoned along a roadside, bearing clear signs of brutal execution. The third brother remains missing, and security forces continue their search.
These events highlight the persistent security challenges faced by the region, underscoring the need for continued vigilance and robust counterterrorism measures. The successful defusing of the IEDs and the ongoing investigation into the abduction and murders demonstrate the commitment of law enforcement agencies to protect civilians and uphold law and order in Bannu and surrounding areas.
