What Happened in Bannu, Khyber Pakhtunkhwa?

As the entire nation was preparing for Iftar last evening, a wave of terror struck Bannu. The sound of gunfire and explosions spread fear across the city. Helpless citizens rushed around carrying the bodies of their loved ones, searching through the rubble for survivors. Cries of pain and sorrow echoed in the air as people struggled to identify the injured and remove the debris. Burned bodies and mutilated remains painted a grim picture of the tragedy.

Attack on Bannu Cantonment

On March 4, 2025, during Iftar time, a massive terrorist attack took place in Bannu, Khyber Pakhtunkhwa. Two suicide bombers rammed explosive-laden vehicles into the wall of a military cantonment, creating a breach. Following this, more attackers entered and aggressively clashed with security forces. At least 13 people were killed, and 32 were injured in the attack. According to Bannu police, the explosions occurred inside the cantonment and were so intense that nearby homes and mosques sustained significant damage, leading to civilian casualties. The village of Kot Barara, located near the cantonment, was particularly affected, with several houses collapsing. A mosque also crumbled, resulting in the death of its imam and two other individuals.

Jaish Fursan Muhammad

The militant group Jaish Fursan Muhammad claimed responsibility for this attack. Previously active against US forces in Afghanistan, the group became operational in Pakistan after the withdrawal of foreign troops from Afghanistan. It has claimed responsibility for several major attacks in the region and is affiliated with the Hafiz Gul Bahadur faction of the Tehrik-i-Taliban Pakistan (TTP).

Why Is Bannu a Frequent Target of Terrorism?

Bannu has faced multiple terrorist attacks on military installations over the years, with a noticeable increase in recent times:

October 2024: Militants attacked the Bannu Police Lines, resulting in the deaths of five attackers and four law enforcement personnel.

July 2024: A terrorist attack on Bannu Cantonment led to the deaths of eight security personnel and ten militants.

November 2023: A suicide attack on security forces in the Baka Khel area claimed two lives and injured seven others, including three security personnel. The attacker was identified as an Afghan national linked to the Hafiz Gul Bahadur group.

These incidents underscore the growing threat of terrorism in Bannu, posing severe challenges to regional security and stability.

What Does This Wave of Violence Signify?

This attack isn’t an isolated incident; it’s part of a troubling pattern of rising militancy in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, especially in regions like Bannu. The consistent targeting of military installations and security forces suggests a strategic effort by militant groups to destabilize the region and challenge the state’s authority. The involvement of groups like Jaish Fursan Muhammad, linked to the Hafiz Gul Bahadur faction of the Tehrik-i-Taliban Pakistan (TTP), highlights the cross-border dynamics of militancy, with these groups gaining strength after the withdrawal of foreign forces from Afghanistan.

The social and economic impact of these attacks is devastating. Beyond the immediate loss of life and property, there’s a climate of fear that disrupts daily life and commerce. The local economy suffers as businesses shut down and investors pull back. Infrastructure damage further deepens the crisis, and the lack of medical facilities like burn centers and well-equipped hospitals exacerbates the human cost of such violence.

On the political front, these attacks raise serious questions about the effectiveness of the state’s counterterrorism strategy. Despite ongoing military operations over the last two decades, the persistence of such attacks indicates gaps in intelligence, security measures, and long-term peace-building efforts. Locals’ frustration with continuous military operations without a clear resolution reflects a deeper disillusionment with state institutions.

The way forward requires a multi-faceted approach. Beyond military responses, there’s a critical need for socio-economic development and political engagement with local communities. Strengthening infrastructure — particularly healthcare and education — alongside security measures could help rebuild trust. Addressing the root causes of militancy, including poverty, lack of opportunities, and ideological extremism, is essential for long-term stability.

The Consequences of Continuous Terrorism in Bannu

The persistent wave of terrorism has had a devastating impact on Bannu’s citizens and its economy. In the aftermath of such attacks, daily life comes to a standstill as fear grips the population. Businesses close, and economic activity grinds to a halt. The city’s infrastructure has suffered severe damage, and the local population faces constant insecurity.

In conversations with IBC English, residents expressed their frustration over the deteriorating situation. They stated that even local investors are hesitant to conduct business in Bannu, let alone outsiders. Such attacks discourage investment and disrupt local economic activities. Markets shut down due to fear and uncertainty, resulting in significant losses for daily businesses.

Moreover, increased security measures following these incidents — such as roadblocks, searches, and checkpoints — limit citizens’ mobility and disrupt their daily lives. Many residents have begun migrating to other cities in search of safety and stability. According to local traders, the psychological toll on the community has been immense. Feelings of insecurity have surged, children’s education has been disrupted, and social activities have dwindled.

Military Operation: Solution or Problem?

When asked about the state’s response to these incidents, a police officer suggested that potential military operations or counter-terrorism measures could further escalate tensions in the region. These actions often lead to displacement and additional hardships for local populations.

Residents argue that despite 20 years of military operations, terrorism remains a persistent threat. Attacks like these pose significant obstacles to development and stability in sensitive areas like Bannu, undermining long-term public confidence and prosperity.

After the Explosions

Despite the frequency of terrorist attacks, Bannu’s residents lament the lack of adequate healthcare infrastructure. There are no well-equipped hospitals, burn centers, or modern ambulances available. Even if terrorism cannot be immediately controlled, citizens question why essential services like healthcare and education remain neglected. They feel abandoned by the authorities, wondering where the nation is headed and who will take responsibility for its well-being.