Suicide bombers attack Pakistan base: 12 dead, 30 injured

In the city of Bannu, located in Pakistan’s Khyber Pakhtunkhwa province, a deadly attack involving two suicide bombers and ensuing violence left at least 12 individuals dead and 30 wounded. A faction tied to the Pakistani Taliban claimed responsibility for the incursion, with the group asserting that numerous security personnel had been killed. However, the military has yet to verify any such casualties. Accounts from Bannu District Hospital confirmed a dozen fatalities following the attack, which also impacted local civilians.

The violent incident unfolded as the attackers detonated explosive devices near the perimeter of a military complex. Reports from an unnamed security source indicated that the suicide bombers succeeded in breaching the wall, followed by an attempted entry by additional attackers, who were subsequently neutralized. The assault took place during the Muslim holy month of Ramadan, at a time when many would be breaking their fast.

Jaish Al-Fursan, the group that asserted responsibility for the attack, described the use of explosive-laden vehicles. Following the explosions, witnesses reported seeing gray smoke plumes and hearing persistent gunfire. Among those killed were four children residing in the vicinity of the blasts, according to hospital officials.

Bannu District Hospital’s spokesman, Muhammad Noman, detailed the extent of the damage, which included severe structural impacts on residences and nearby buildings. Consequently, roofs and walls gave way, contributing to the number of casualties. Dr. Ahmed Faraz Khan, the hospital’s director, revealed that they had received 42 victims, which included 12 fatalities. Many of the survivors are in stable condition, though some remain critical.

In response to the crisis, a medical emergency was declared, prompting the mobilization of doctors, surgeons, and paramedical staff. Rescue efforts continue in the affected areas, especially after the roof of a mosque collapsed during the explosions. Tragically, responders recovered the body of the mosque’s imam from beneath the debris.

Pakistani Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif publicly denounced the attack, expressing sorrow for the lives lost. Meanwhile, the chief minister of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, Ali Amin Gandapur, initiated a formal investigation into the attack. Bannu has previously been the target of similar assaults, including a notable incident last November involving a suicide car bomb that resulted in the deaths of 12 troops. Additionally, an attack in July featured a bomber and gunmen engaging forces near the military area’s outer defenses.