Two soldiers were martyred and five militants were killed after security forces foiled a suicide attack on a convoy during an intelligence-based operation in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa’s Bannu district, according to the military’s media wing.
In a statement issued by Inter-Services Public Relations, the operation was launched following credible reports about the presence of militants allegedly backed by India, including a suicide bomber operating in the area.
Suicide Bomber Intercepted
Officials said a vehicle-borne suicide bomber attempted to target the security forces’ convoy in Bannu city. However, the leading contingent of the convoy identified and intercepted the suspicious vehicle before it could reach densely populated areas.
The swift response prevented what authorities described as a potential large-scale tragedy involving both civilians and law enforcement personnel.
Intense Gun Battle
During the operation, security forces traced the hideouts of militants in the vicinity. An exchange of heavy gunfire ensued, resulting in the killing of five suspected terrorists.
Despite suffering losses, the militants carried out a final act of retaliation. In what officials termed a desperate move, an explosives-laden vehicle was rammed into one of the convoy vehicles.
Senior Officer Among Martyrs
The attack led to the martyrdom of Lieutenant Colonel Shahzada Gul Faraz, who was commanding the operation from the front, along with Sepoy Karamat Shah.
Military officials described Lt Col Faraz as a courageous and professional officer known for leading from the front in counterterrorism missions. His sacrifice, along with that of Sepoy Karamat Shah, has been hailed as a testament to the armed forces’ resolve in combating militancy.
Allegations of Cross-Border Involvement
In its statement, the military accused militants — referred to as “Khwarij” — of continuing their activities from across the border, alleging that Afghan soil is being used to plan and execute attacks inside Pakistan.
The statement further criticized the Afghan Taliban authorities for failing to prevent such elements from operating from their territory, particularly during the holy month of Ramadan. It added that the continuation of such attacks reflects the militants’ disregard for religious sanctity.
Operations to Continue Under ‘Azm-e-Istehkam’
The military reaffirmed that counterterrorism operations under the “Azm-e-Istehkam” campaign — approved by the Federal Apex Committee under the National Action Plan — would continue with full force.
Authorities vowed that operations against those involved in what they described as a “heinous and cowardly act” would persist, regardless of their location, emphasizing that the sacrifices of security personnel further strengthen Pakistan’s commitment to eliminating terrorism.
