Chief of Army Staff (COAS) General Asim Munir has vowed to bring the masterminds and facilitators of the deadly Bannu Cantonment attack to justice, according to a statement issued by the Inter-Services Public Relations (ISPR) on Thursday.
The statement follows the successful repulsion of a terrorist attack on Bannu Cantonment in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa two days earlier, during which security forces eliminated all 16 militants attempting to infiltrate the facility, as per the ISPR.
However, the military’s media wing reported that five soldiers embraced martyrdom while bravely resisting the attack. Additionally, at least 13 civilians lost their lives, and 32 others sustained injuries due to destruction caused by suicide blasts during the clash.
Following the attack, General Munir visited Bannu, where he was briefed on ongoing security operations and the overall situation in the region. He also visited the Combined Military Hospital (CMH) Bannu to check on the injured soldiers, commending their resilience and dedication.
The COAS praised the troops for their high morale and firm resolve, reaffirming that the Pakistan Army remains steadfast in its mission to safeguard the country against terrorism. He also extended heartfelt condolences to the families of the innocent civilians who lost their lives in the attack.
He assured that while the attackers were swiftly neutralized by the valiant soldiers, those who orchestrated and facilitated the attack would also be brought to justice, regardless of their location.
General Munir condemned the targeting of civilians, including children, women, and the elderly, stating that such actions exposed the true nature of TTP terrorists as enemies of Islam. He emphasized the crucial role of national unity in combating terrorism and assured that the armed forces would leave no stone unturned in ensuring the safety and security of the Pakistani people.
While addressing the troops, the COAS commended their swift and decisive actions in neutralizing the attackers and preventing further destruction. He reiterated that the fight against the TTP and its facilitators, who act on behalf of hostile forces, would continue until its ultimate conclusion.
The Army Chief highlighted that terrorist groups, including the TTP, continue to operate from Afghan territory against Pakistan. He pointed out that the use of foreign weapons and equipment in recent terrorist attacks serves as clear evidence that Afghanistan remains a sanctuary for such elements.
He reaffirmed that Pakistan’s peace and stability would not be compromised by any entity.
Upon his arrival in Bannu, the COAS was received by the Corps Commander Peshawar.
