This prompt and effective action by the security forces averted a significant disaster, safeguarding countless innocent lives. The brave and selfless efforts of the security personnel highlight their unwavering determination in the battle against terrorism,” the statement read.
According to the military spokesperson, the attack was executed by the Hafiz Gul Bahadur group, which operates from Afghanistan and has previously utilized the neighboring country’s territory to launch attacks inside Pakistan.
The statement also emphasized the security forces’ commitment to protect the nation from the threat of terrorism and to take all necessary measures deemed appropriate against these dangers originating from Afghanistan.
It is important to note that in November 2023, Pakistan summoned the head of the Afghan diplomatic mission in Islamabad, demanding the extradition of terrorist Gul Bahadur, the leader of a faction of the banned Tehreek-e-Taliban Pakistan (TTP).
The Bannu Cantonment attack comes as Islamabad repeatedly urged the Afghan Taliban administration in Kabul to prevent its territory from being exploited by various banned groups for terrorist activities against Pakistan.
Last month, the government approved the launch of operation “Azm-e-Istehkam,” a renewed national anti-terrorism initiative in response to the recent rise in terrorist incidents within the country.
In the second quarter of 2024, the nation experienced 380 violence-related fatalities and 220 injuries among civilians, security personnel, and militants, resulting from approximately 240 incidents of terrorism and counter-terror operations, according to the CRSS Annual Security report.
This total includes 236 deaths among civilians and security forces personnel, the report indicated.
Khyber Pakhtunkhwa and Balochistan, both sharing borders with Afghanistan, have borne the brunt of these attacks, accounting for nearly 92% of all fatalities and 87% of the incidents—where Khyber Pakhtunkhwa experienced 67% and Balochistan 25% of all fatalities in Q2 2024.
- Terrorist rammed explosive-laden vehicle into cantonment: ISPR.
- Blast led to collapsed portion of wall, damaged adjoining building.
- Attack carried out by Hafiz Gul Bahadur group in Afghanistan.
