Bannu (Web Desk/Agencies): Security forces thwarted a terrorist attack by Fitna-al-Khwarij on Bannu Cantonment on Tuesday.
In the cowardly assault, nine innocent civilians were martyred, while 16 others sustained injuries.
According to security sources, militants attempted to breach the cantonment’s perimeter by ramming two explosive-laden vehicles into its wall during Iftar, a time when the market was crowded.
One of the vehicles was detonated in an area adjacent to the market, resulting in civilian casualties and severe damage to a nearby mosque.
The targeting of innocent civilians and a mosque during the holy month of Ramazan proved that these militants have no connection to Islam.
Security forces have launched a clearance operation that will continue until the complete elimination of all Khwarij elements.
President Asif Ali Zardari and Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif have strongly condemned the terrorists’ attack in Bannu Cantonment during iftar.
In their separate messages, the president and the premier expressed grief and sorrow over the loss of precious human lives in the attack.
In his remarks, President Zardari appreciated the security forces for killing the terrorists, and said the attack in the holy month of Ramadan is a heinous act and entire nation rejects such atrocious acts.
He prayed for the highest ranks for the martyrs and patience for their families.
The president expressed determination to continue operations for the elimination of the Fitna al-Khwarij from the country.
In his message, Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif commended the security forces for their timely response in preventing a potentially devastating assault.
The prime minister offered his condolences to the families of the deceased and prayed for their elevated ranks in the hereafter.
He also prayed for the swift recovery of those injured in the attack, and ordered the authorities concerned that injured persons should be provided with the best medical treatment and facilities.
PM Shehbaz said that such cowardly terrorists, who targeted innocent civilians during the holy month of Ramadan, deserve no mercy.
He condemned the Khawarij as enemies of Pakistan and its people, assuring that their malicious intentions would never succeed.
The prime minister said that the entire nation stands united with the security forces in the fight against the Khawarij, pledging to continue the battle against them until they are completely eradicated.
Interior Minister Mohsin Naqvi has praised the security forces for successfully thwarting a terrorist attack by Khawarij militants in Bannu Cantt.
In a statement, he commended their swift and decisive action, which resulted in the elimination of six terrorists.
Naqvi emphasized that the nation takes immense pride in the professionalism and courage of its security forces.
“Their timely response not only saved lives but also crushed the nefarious intentions of the attackers,” he said.
Expressing deep sorrow over the loss of precious lives in the attack, the interior minister extended heartfelt condolences to the families of the martyrs. He assured them of the government’s unwavering support during this difficult time.
Naqvi prayed for the swift recovery of those injured in the incident.
“We stand with the families of the martyrs in this hour of grief,” the interior minister stated, reaffirming the government’s commitment to eradicating terrorism and ensuring national security.
