12 security personnel martyred in Bannu checkpost attack: ISPR

Twelve security personnel were martyred in a fierce battle with terrorists who attacked a checkpoint in Bannu on Tuesday. Six militants were also killed during the encounter, according to the Inter-Services Public Relations (ISPR).

A statement issued by the ISPR said that on November 19, 2024, “Khawarij attempted to attack a Joint Check Post in general area MaliKhel in Bannu District.”

The attempt to enter the post was effectively thwarted by the troops and six  terrorists were killed during the exchange of fire.

“The attempt to enter the post was effectively thwarted by own troops, which forced the khwarij to ram an explosive-laden vehicle into the perimeter wall of the post,” ISPR explained.

The blast resulted in the martyrdom of 12 brave soldiers, including 10 soldiers of the security forces and 2 soldiers of the Frontier Constabulary.

The Pakistan Army spokesperson said that a sanitization operation is underway in the area and the perpetrators of this heinous act will be brought to justice.

The statement further said, “Security forces and law enforcement agencies of Pakistan are determined to eliminate the menace of terrorism and such sacrifices of our brave men further strengthen our resolve,”

Militant attacks in Bannu district have increased in recent days.

 On Tuesday, more than half a dozen police officers who were kidnapped from a check post on the North Waziristan border were safely recovered by the police with the help of tribal elders.