BANNU: A police patrol in Bannu came under attack on Monday, leading to a gun battle that resulted in the deaths of two militants. In a separate incident, a blast damaged a critical communication bridge in another area of the district.
The attack took place within the jurisdiction of the Domail police station when unidentified assailants opened fire on a police mobile van during a routine patrol on Company Road. The police rapidly responded, mitigating the potential for further casualties.
Officials reported that the exchange of gunfire between police forces and the attackers lasted approximately 20 minutes. As a result of the police operation, two militants were killed, and weapons were recovered.
Law enforcement officials cordoned off the area and initiated a search and clearance operation to ensure there were no remaining attackers. Authorities indicated that efforts were underway to secure the locality and restore normalcy.
In a separate incident, militants detonated explosives to destroy a communication bridge within the jurisdiction of Merian police station. Police reported that explosives had been planted near Khesoor Bridge, which resulted in a significant explosion causing damage to the structure.
Investigations into both incidents have commenced, and authorities are assessing any potential connections between the attack on the police patrol and the bridge explosion. Security measures throughout the district have been intensified in response to the events.
