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Explosions during Ramadan prayers leave Bannu in mourning as security forces launch clearance operations to eliminate remaining threats
A somber atmosphere engulfed the city of Bannu in northwestern Pakistan as residents mourned the loss of 12 lives following a devastating twin suicide bombing. The attack, which unfolded on Tuesday evening, targeted a military base and caused widespread destruction, shaking the community to its core.
The deadly assault took place as locals were breaking their Ramadan fast and attending prayers at a nearby mosque. According to security officials, two suicide bombers initiated the attack by detonating their explosives near the perimeter wall of the military base. This breach allowed a group of heavily armed militants to storm the compound, where they engaged in an intense firefight with soldiers stationed inside.
The explosions were powerful enough to bring down walls, rip off roofs, and cause significant structural damage to the surrounding area, including the mosque where worshippers had gathered. The impact of the blasts was felt across the vicinity, leaving behind scenes of devastation as rescue teams rushed to assist those affected.
In addition to the 12 confirmed fatalities, at least 30 individuals sustained injuries, some of them critical. However, official casualty figures have not yet accounted for any potential losses among military personnel, leaving uncertainty over the number of soldiers killed or wounded in the incident.
As dawn broke on Wednesday, the city observed a solemn day of mourning, with businesses and educational institutions shuttered in remembrance of the victims. Residents struggled to come to terms with the tragedy, while rescue operations continued in the affected areas. A mechanical digger was deployed to clear the rubble of homes destroyed in the explosions, and the interior of the mosque remained littered with debris-covered prayer mats, a grim reminder of the previous night’s attack.
Rescue workers and volunteers worked tirelessly to aid those injured by the blasts, carrying them to safety and transporting them to medical facilities for urgent treatment. Many of the wounded remain in critical condition, placing further strain on the city’s healthcare system. Authorities have urged the public to donate blood as hospitals scramble to provide care to the influx of casualties.
Community elders and religious leaders organized a collective funeral service for the victims, set to take place at a local sports complex. Among them, Bannu elder Alam Khan expressed the deep sorrow felt across the city. “This is a dark day for our community,” he said. “All educational institutions are closed, and most shops have also shut down out of respect for those who lost their lives. Rescue teams have now completed their operation by recovering the bodies of three worshippers who were trapped under the collapsed mosque roof.”
Even as the community mourned, gunfire continued to echo through the city early Wednesday morning as security forces conducted clearance operations to eliminate any remaining threats. Authorities combed through the area meticulously, determined to ensure no additional militants were hiding in the vicinity. Military and law enforcement officials have vowed to bring those responsible for orchestrating the attack to justice.
A security official, speaking on condition of anonymity due to restrictions on discussing operational details, provided insights into the unfolding events. “The two suicide bombers detonated themselves near the wall of the military zone, causing a breach that allowed additional attackers to enter,” he explained. “Five to six more heavily armed militants attempted to infiltrate the cantonment area, but they were swiftly engaged and neutralized by security forces.”
Tuesday’s attack has left the people of Bannu in shock, raising concerns over security in the region, particularly during the holy month of Ramadan. The devastating incident serves as a grim reminder of the persistent threat posed by militant groups in the area. While security agencies continue their investigations, the people of Bannu remain united in grief, offering prayers for the departed and hoping for a safer future.