RAWALPINDI: A Lieutenant Colonel and a soldier of the Pakistan Army were martyred in a suicide attack targeting a security forces convoy in Bannu, the military’s media wing said.
According to the Inter-Services Public Relations (ISPR), security forces had received intelligence about a vehicle-borne suicide bomber and were conducting an operation in the area based on the tip-off.
During the operation, troops traced militants identified as “Fitna al-Khawarij.” A suicide bomber traveling in a vehicle was intercepted in time by the leading contingent.
In desperation, the attackers rammed an explosives-laden vehicle into one of the security vehicles, resulting in the martyrdom of Lieutenant Colonel Shehzada Gulfraz and Sepoy Karamat Shah.
ISPR stated that five militants were killed during the ensuing exchange, and the timely action of security forces prevented a major tragedy in Bannu city, foiling the terrorists’ plan to target innocent civilians and personnel.
The military further noted that despite the sanctity of the holy month, militants continue cross-border terrorist activities from Afghanistan into Pakistan. ISPR said such actions demonstrate that the attackers have no connection with Islamic teachings.
It added that the Afghan Taliban government has failed to prevent its soil from being used for terrorist activities against Pakistan.
Reaffirming its resolve, ISPR said Pakistan will continue indiscriminate operations against militants under the counterterrorism drive “Azm-e-Istehkam,” emphasizing that the sacrifices of brave soldiers further strengthen the nation’s unwavering commitment to peace and stability.
