Pakistan reports heavy Taliban losses; Bannu on high alert

WEB DESK: Pakistan’s Information Minister Attaullah Tarar has released updated figures on the toll inflicted on Afghan Taliban forces since the launch of Operation Ghazab lil‑Haq, saying Islamabad’s armed forces have inflicted significant losses on militant positions following a fresh escalation in cross‑border hostilities.

In a post on social media platform X early on Saturday, Mr Tarar said that military operations had killed 331 Afghan Taliban fighters and wounded more than 500 others since the beginning of the offensive. He added that 104 Taliban posts had been destroyed and 22 captured, with 163 tanks and other armoured vehicles disabled during the campaign. According to the minister, the strikes included air operations on 37 locations inside Afghanistan targeting militant infrastructure.

The heightened conflict follows what Islamabad describes as a series of unprovoked attacks on Pakistani positions along the Durand Line border. Pakistani military officials assert the strikes are aimed at militancy emanating from Afghan territory, including groups aligned with the Afghan Taliban regime.

Emergency Declared in Bannu as Threats Reported

Meanwhile, the district administration in Bannu, in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa (KP) province, has declared an emergency to safeguard public safety amid fears of possible terrorist activity. Movement of certain classes of vehicles has been restricted within the city, and local authorities have urged residents to remain vigilant and comply with official guidance.

According to police, authorities acted on credible intelligence suggesting potential acts of sabotage involving various types of vehicles. In response, the District Education Officer, Abdul Malik, announced a one‑day closure of all government schools in the district to protect pupils and staff.

The District Bar Association, Bannu, also called a complete strike for the day, with a notification issued by General Secretary Usman Sikandari, Advocate, expressing concern over the volatile situation.

Bannu Police have directed all stations to remain on high alert, intensify patrols, and bolster security measures. Roads near key military areas, including Bannu Cantt and the Police Lines, have been closed as a precautionary measure.

District Police Officer Yasir Afridi reported that at least six planned terrorist attacks were thwarted through timely action at multiple locations in the city, including the Kashoo Bridge police check post, Kotka Muhammad Khan Domel, and Kinger check post. No major injuries were reported in these incidents, according to officials.