Seven people were killed and three others injured after two explosions struck the Marka Bera area in Bannu’s Wazir sub-division on Saturday, prompting a security operation and renewed concern over rising militant violence in the region.
According to police, the attacks targeted two vehicles in the Phang Musa Khel area in what authorities described as remote-controlled explosions. District Police Officer Yasir Afridi confirmed that seven people were martyred while three others sustained injuries.
Police said the first blast hit a private Datsun vehicle carrying passengers as it travelled towards Domel. The explosion killed five people and completely destroyed the vehicle.
As injured victims from the first attack were being transported for medical treatment, a second explosion occurred nearly one kilometre away. Two more people were killed and the second vehicle was also destroyed.
Security forces and law enforcement agencies reached the scene shortly after the attacks, collected evidence and began an investigation. Authorities also cordoned off the surrounding area and launched a search operation amid concerns that additional explosive devices could remain active.
Rescue 1122 teams moved the bodies and injured victims to Domel Rural Health Centre and Khalifa Gul Nawaz Teaching Hospital for treatment and further procedures.
President Asif Ali Zardari condemned the attacks and expressed condolences to the bereaved families while praying for the recovery of those injured. He said attempts to destabilise the country would not succeed and reaffirmed Pakistan’s commitment to regional and global peace.
Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif also condemned the explosions and expressed sorrow over the loss of lives, while National Assembly Speaker Ayaz Sadiq described the targeting of civilians as a cowardly act and stressed national unity against terrorism.
The latest attack underscores continuing security concerns in Bannu, where recent months have seen repeated militant incidents involving civilians and security personnel. Local leaders and residents have called for stronger measures to address the deteriorating security situation.
