Bannu Checkpoint Attack Claims Policeman’s Life, Three Militants Die in Retaliatory Fire

BANNU – A police checkpoint in the Fateh Khel area of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa’s Bannu district came under heavy militant fire late Saturday night, resulting in the death of a police constable and three militants during a prolonged exchange of gunfire.

The assault, carried out by a group of 40 to 50 militants, marks yet another major security incident in the district, which has witnessed a string of similar attacks in recent weeks. Constable Rooh Niaz Khan was fatally wounded while defending the post. Three of his fellow officers sustained injuries.

The attack adds to a growing list of violent incidents targeting law enforcement across KP, particularly in Bannu, where police have been under sustained pressure amid a resurgence of militant activity.

Police Respond Under Fire

Police officials said the attackers had blocked surrounding roads to cut off reinforcements before opening fire with heavy weapons. Despite the tactical disadvantage, officers at the post returned fire and held their ground until additional forces, led by Regional Police Officer (RPO) Sajjad Khan and District Police Officer (DPO) Saleem Abbas Kulachi, arrived on site.

“The terrorists attempted to isolate and overwhelm the checkpoint, but our personnel responded with full force,” RPO Khan said. “They showed remarkable courage under extreme conditions.”

Three militants were fatally wounded in the exchange. A search operation is ongoing in the surrounding area to locate any others who may have escaped during the firefight.

Farewell to a Fallen Officer

Constable Rooh Niaz Khan was laid to rest on Sunday morning at Bannu Police Lines. The funeral was attended by senior police officials, his family, and colleagues, who honored his service and sacrifice.

DPO Kulachi paid tribute to the fallen officer, saying, “He gave his life protecting the people of this region. His bravery is a reminder of the risks our police force faces daily and the strength with which they confront those threats.”

Wave of Violence Continues

Saturday night’s incident follows a series of recent attacks in Bannu and other districts. Just days earlier, a drone strike on the Miryan police station left six officers injured. The strike was linked to an ongoing counterterror operation in the Nurar area, where police had recently disrupted a potential attack.

In July, three militants died during an intelligence-based operation in Bannu, and a fourth was fatally shot during an encounter in Malakand. A separate ambush last month claimed the life of Constable Hayatullah in Bannu, further underscoring the rising threat level in the district.

Government Response and Broader Threat

Interior Minister Mohsin Naqvi condemned the attack and paid homage to the martyred constable, describing him as a symbol of commitment and courage. He alleged foreign involvement, stating that “Indian-sponsored elements” were behind the growing number of cross-border attacks.

Security analysts say the pattern of violence — especially the use of drones and coordinated ambushes — points to an evolving threat that requires both tactical upgrades and policy attention. With Bannu emerging as a key hotspot, the pressure on local forces continues to mount.

Still, police leadership remains resolute. “The fight is far from over,” said DPO Kulachi. “But Bannu Police are ready for it — on every front.”