Chief of Army Staff (COAS) General Asim Munir has vowed to bring to justice those responsible for planning and facilitating the deadly terrorist attack on Bannu Cantonment, the Inter-Services Public Relations (ISPR) said in a statement on Thursday.
The statement comes two days after security forces successfully foiled an attempted incursion into Bannu Cantonment by 16 militants, all of whom were killed in the intense exchange of fire. The attack, carried out by Tehreek-e-Taliban Pakistan (TTP) militants, was repelled with swift action from the forces.
However, the operation also resulted in the martyrdom of five soldiers who displayed remarkable bravery in defending the facility. The military’s media wing further reported that at least 13 civilians lost their lives, while 32 others sustained injuries due to the destruction caused by suicide blasts during the confrontation.
Following the attack, General Munir visited Bannu, where he was briefed on the security situation and the ongoing counterterrorism operations in the region. He also visited the injured soldiers at the Combined Military Hospital (CMH) Bannu, acknowledging their resilience and unwavering commitment to duty.
Addressing the troops, the army chief praised their high morale and steadfast resolve, emphasizing that the Pakistan Army remains a stronghold against terrorism and will continue to ensure national security and stability. He extended his condolences to the families of the innocent civilians who lost their lives in the attack and assured that the forces would spare no effort in tracking down and punishing those behind the attack, no matter where they may be hiding.
General Munir condemned the brutal targeting of civilians, including children, women, and the elderly, calling it a clear reflection of the TTP’s true intentions as enemies of Islam. He stressed the importance of national unity in combating terrorism and urged the local community to play an active role in this fight.
Assuring that the armed forces are fully committed to safeguarding the people of Pakistan, he reiterated that the battle against TTP and their facilitators—who act on behalf of hostile elements—would continue until it reaches its logical conclusion.
The army chief also highlighted the continued presence of terrorist groups operating from Afghan soil, pointing out that the use of foreign weapons and equipment in recent attacks was evidence of Afghanistan serving as a safe haven for such elements. He reaffirmed that no entity would be allowed to disrupt Pakistan’s peace and stability. Upon his arrival in Bannu, General Munir was received by the Corps Commander Peshawar.
