Bannu IBOs Kill 24 Terrorists As Security Forces Expand Crackdown

Security forces have killed at least 24 terrorists during extensive intelligence-based operations in Bannu district and adjoining areas of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, according to the Inter-Services Public Relations. The military’s media wing said the operations were launched after a fresh wave of militant activity in the district, including attacks targeting police, law enforcement personnel and civilians.

The operations followed heightened security concerns in Bannu after a vehicle-borne suicide bombing and other recent assaults created alarm across the region. Officials said the security forces moved to locate those behind the attacks, disrupt their support networks and prevent further violence against public institutions and local communities.

According to ISPR, fierce exchanges of fire took place during the last 24 hours as security teams moved against militant hideouts. The military said 24 members of Fitna al-Khawarij, a term used by the state for militants linked with the banned Tehreek-e-Taliban Pakistan, were killed during the operations.

The military’s statement said weapons and ammunition were recovered from the dead terrorists. It further stated that the militants were involved in multiple terrorist activities, including attacks that caused deaths among civilians and security personnel.

ISPR said the counterterrorism campaign would continue in the area and that those responsible for recent attacks would be pursued until they are brought to justice. The statement linked the operation to the broader Azm-e-Istehkam framework, approved under the National Action Plan, which aims to intensify action against terrorism and its support structures.

The development comes at a sensitive time for Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, where police stations, security convoys, bridges and public infrastructure have come under repeated attack. Bannu has remained one of the districts facing serious security pressure because of its geography, militant movement and proximity to areas historically used by armed networks.

Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif praised the security forces and law enforcement agencies for what he described as timely and effective action against those involved in recent attacks. He said the elimination of terrorism and its facilitators remained a top priority for the government and added that the nation stood with its security personnel.

Pakistan has seen a rise in militant attacks in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa and Balochistan in recent years, particularly after the breakdown of earlier ceasefire arrangements with banned militant groups. The renewed violence has forced security agencies to increase intelligence-based operations, while also raising fresh questions about cross-border sanctuaries, local facilitation networks and the safety of civilians in high-risk districts.

The latest Bannu operations are expected to be followed by continued search and clearance activity in nearby areas. Authorities will now focus on identifying support infrastructure, recovering additional weapons and preventing retaliatory attacks, while residents of the affected areas will be watching closely for signs of lasting improvement in security.