Constable martyred in Bannu terror attack

Rocket, sniper strike on patrol; civilian injured

BANNU:

A police constable was martyred and a civilian injured when unidentified terrorists struck a police bulletproof vehicle with a rocket and sniper fire in Bannu district.

According to police officials, the attack occurred while the vehicle was on routine patrol. The sudden assault caused severe damage to the vehicle and left the driver, Constable Raza Ali Shah, critically wounded. He was rushed to a hospital but succumbed to his injuries.

A civilian also sustained injuries during the incident and was shifted to the District Headquarters Hospital, where his condition is now stated to be out of danger, hospital sources said.

Following the attack, police and other security agencies cordoned off the area and launched a large-scale search and combing operation. Police authorities said all available resources are being utilised to arrest the perpetrators, while security has been placed on high alert in the region.

The funeral prayers of martyred Constable were offered with official honours at Iqbal Shaheed Police Lines. A large number of civil and military officials, police officers, personnel, and relatives of the martyr attended the ceremony.

A guard of honour was presented, and floral wreaths were laid on the coffin. Among the attendees were DIG Bannu Region Sajjad Khan, DPO Bannu Yasir Afridi, Deputy Commander of 116 Brigade Colonel Talat, along with SPs and SDPOs.

DIG Sajjad Khan and DPO Yasir Afridi expressed heartfelt condolences to the family of the martyr, stating that he was a brave, dutiful, and courageous soldier who sacrificed his life for the peace and stability of the nation.