Rawalpindi: Chief of Army Staff (COAS) General Asim Munir has vowed to bring to justice the planners and facilitators behind the deadly Bannu attack , which took place earlier this week. The statement came after security forces successfully thwarted a terrorist assault on the military facility.
According to the Inter-Services Public Relations (ISPR), the Bannu attack, which occurred on Tuesday, was carried out by militants from the Tehrik-i-Taliban Pakistan (TTP). The attackers, who attempted to infiltrate the cantonment, were all neutralized by Pakistani security forces, with 16 militants killed in the ensuing clash. However, five soldiers sacrificed their lives in defense of the cantonment, while 13 civilians were martyred and 32 others injured in the blasts that followed.
The COAS visited the site of the attack shortly after the incident to assess the situation and meet with the injured soldiers. During the visit, General Munir was briefed on the ongoing operations and the broader security context of the region. He also visited the Combined Military Hospital (CMH) in Bannu to personally inquire about the condition of the wounded soldiers and commend their courage.
The Army Chief expressed his profound condolences to the families of the innocent civilians who lost their lives in the attack, highlighting the cowardice of those responsible. He assured that while the terrorists responsible for the attack had been swiftly neutralized, the planners and facilitators of the attack would face justice.
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“The barbaric attack, which targeted innocent civilians, including children, women, and the elderly, clearly reveals the true nature of TTP terrorists as enemies of Islam,” General Munir said in a statement.
He also praised the high morale of the troops involved in the operation, acknowledging their swift and decisive actions that prevented further casualties. The COAS reiterated that the Pakistan Army remains resolute in its commitment to securing the nation and countering terrorism.
During his visit, General Munir emphasized the importance of national unity in the fight against terrorism, stressing the crucial role that the local community plays in ensuring security. He reassured the public that the armed forces would not relent in their efforts to protect the citizens of Pakistan.
Additionally, the COAS highlighted that terrorist groups like the TTP continue to operate from Afghan soil, using foreign weapons and equipment. He reaffirmed that Afghanistan’s soil remains a safe haven for terrorists, but warned that no entity would be allowed to disrupt Pakistan’s peace and stability.
General Munir concluded by reaffirming the military’s commitment to continuing the fight against the TTP and their facilitators until terrorism is eradicated. Upon his arrival in Bannu, the COAS was received by the Corps Commander of Peshawar.
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