As many as 12 security men were martyred when Khwarij terrorists rammed an explosive-laden vehicle into a joint checkpost in Bannu while six terrorists were killed in the retaliatory fire of the troops, reported 24NewsHD TV channel.
According to an ISPR statement issued on Wednesday, security forces personnel killed six Khwarij terrorists by effectively thwarting their attempt to enter the joint checkpost in general area Malikhel in Bannu District.
The ISPR statement said “In the ensuing fire exchange, six Khwarij were sent to hell. The attempt to enter the post was effectively thwarted by own troops, which forced the Khwarij to ram an explosive-laden vehicle into the perimeter wall of the post.”
The suicide blast led to collapse of portion of perimeter wall and damaged the adjoining infrastructure, resulting in Shahadat of 12 brave sons of soil that included 10 soldiers of the security forces and two soldiers of Frontier Constabulary,” the ISPR news release said.
“Sanitization operation was being conducted in the area and the perpetrators of this heinous act will be brought to justice, the ISPR statement said, adding “Security forces and law enforcement agencies of Pakistan are determined to eliminate the menace of terrorism and such sacrifices of our brave men further strengthen our resolve.”
AFP adds: "A suspected suicide bomber detonated an explosive-laden vehicle near the checkpoint, after which his accomplices opened fire," an intelligence official said of the attack in Bannu.
The official said that the explosion "caused significant damage" to the Malikhel checkpoint's structure as well as to military vehicles.
The Hafiz Gul Bahadur armed group claimed responsibility for the attack.
President, PM vow to wipe out terrorism
President Asif Ali Zardari and Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif have expressed grief over the martyrdom of 12 personnel of the security forces in a terrorist attack that took place in Bannu.
In their separately issued statements, both the president and prime minister paid tribute to the armed forces personnel for sacrificing their lives and killing six terrorists while safeguarding the country.
“The whole nation salutes the soldiers for sacrificing their lives for the security of their motherland,” the president said and reiterated the nation’s resolve to wipe out terrorism from the country.
He also prayed to Allah Almighty for the elevation of the martyrs’ ranks in paradise and for strength for the bereaved families to bear the loss.
“The sacrifices of the nation’s soldiers will never be squandered. The Fitna Al Khawarij (terrorist) posing threats to the lives and properties of the people will have to pay a heavy price for it,” Prime Minister Shehbaz said and reiterated that the fight against terrorism will continue till the complete elimination of this scourge.
Interior Minister condemns attack on Bannu checkpost
Interior Minister Mohsin Naqvi has strongly condemned the terrorist attack on Bannu checkpost.
While paying tribute to the martyred personnel, Mohsin Naqvi expressed his heartfelt sympathy and condolences to the families of the martyred soldiers. By sacrificing their lives, the brave sons thwarted the nefarious designs of the terrorists, Mohsen Naqvi added.
Mohsin Naqvi said that the soldiers of Pakistan Army who laid down their lives for the peace of the country are the heroes of the nation.
The great sacrifices of the brave soldiers of the security forces will be remembered forever, Mohsen Naqvi said. He said the nation will always be indebted to the martyrs.
Reporter Ahmad Mansoor