BANNU: A suspected militant was killed on Tuesday when an improvised explosive device (IED) he was planting near the Doh Ghoda Bridge in Bannu exploded prematurely, police said. His accomplice, who was injured in the blast, managed to escape into a nearby residential area.
Police confirmed that no civilians were harmed and the bridge — a vital link for travellers moving between Bannu, Miranshah and Peshawar — remained intact. The surrounding area has been sealed off as security forces launched a search operation to track down the injured suspect.
Officials have collected forensic evidence from the site and are working to identify the deceased militant. The bridge, located roughly 2km from Bannu city in Sorani village, falls within a densely populated zone that includes schools and government offices. Police said the attempted strike appeared aimed at disrupting movement towards Peshawar.
Bannu Region Deputy Inspector General of Police Sajad Khan said the swift police response helped avert a “major disaster”. He added that efforts to locate the fleeing suspect had been intensified and urged residents to immediately report any suspicious activity.
Security officials believe the attack was likely carried out by the Gul Bahar faction of the Tehreek-e-Taliban Pakistan (TTP), which operates in Bannu and adjoining areas under the command of Gul Bahar.
I appreciate the balanced view — you didn’t oversell the solution.