A Bannu quadcopter attack claimed one life and injured four others in the Bakakhel Customs area on Tuesday, according to police officials. Authorities said an explosive device was dropped from a quadcopter, triggering a blast that struck civilians. The Bannu quadcopter attack has prompted security forces to launch an extensive search operation in the affected area.
According to Regional Police Officer Rab Nawaz Khan, the attack was allegedly carried out by terrorists linked to Fitna al-Khawarij. Initial investigations indicate that the explosive shell detonated after being dropped from the drone, killing Khatirullah on the spot. Four other civilians sustained injuries and were immediately shifted to the District Headquarters Hospital in Bannu for medical treatment.
Police identified the injured as Saifullah, the teenage son of the deceased, along with Asal Jan, Ameerullah and Shakir. Hospital officials said all four victims were receiving treatment. Authorities have not yet released details about the condition of the injured but confirmed that emergency medical care was provided without delay.
The regional police chief stated that law enforcement agencies had successfully prevented several previous drone attacks targeting police stations and security forces by deploying anti-drone guns and strengthening security at sensitive installations. Following these security measures, he said, militants appeared to have shifted their focus toward unarmed civilians.
Soon after the explosion, a heavy police contingent reached the scene, secured the area and began collecting evidence. Security personnel also launched a search operation to trace those responsible for the attack. Officials said investigations are ongoing and further action will be taken based on the findings.
Condemning the attack, the RPO described those targeting innocent civilians as enemies of humanity. He reaffirmed the commitment of Bannu Police to protect residents, maintain law and order and continue counterterrorism operations against militant groups operating in the region.
The latest incident comes only days after two separate terrorist attacks in Bannu, including an explosion at a government girls’ school and the recovery of an explosive device planted beneath a bridge in Jani Khel. Security experts believe these incidents highlight the continuing security challenges in the district and the need for sustained vigilance.
