COAS visits soldiers injured in Bannu blast

Chief of Army Staff (COAS) General Asim Munir on Friday visited Bannu, a day after nine brave soldiers embraced martyrdom in a suicide attack in the Khyber-Pakhtunkhwa district, the military said.

Five soldiers had also sustained injuries when a motorcycle-borne suicide bomber exploded himself near a military convoy in the Jani Khel area on Thursday.

According to a statement issued by the Inter-Services Public Relations (ISPR), the army chief was briefed on the ongoing operations and overall security situation.

He visited Bannu Combined Military Hospital to inquire after the health and well-being of the injured soldiers. The COAS appreciated the high morale and unflinching resolve of the troops.

Also read: Nine soldiers martyred in Bannu suicide attack

“Pakistan Army will continue to act as a bulwark against terrorism to safeguard the nation from this scourge,” the COAS emphasised.

While interacting with officers and troops deployed in the area, Gen Asim said: “The Army, Law Enforcement Agencies and the Nation can never be coerced by the cowardly tactics of Terrorists, who have a misbelief that they can challenge the iron resolve of the soldiers and writ of the State.”

He said, “We have fought for long and will continue to fight the menace of Terrorism till the end. The Nation pays rich tribute to those who have laid down their lives and their sacrifices will forever be honoured.”

Earlier on arrival, the COAS was received by the Peshawar corps commander.