At least 13 militants affiliated with the banned Fitna al- Khawarij (TTP), including a senior commander of the Hafiz Gul Bahadur group, were killed in a powerful explosion in Bannu, reportedly caused by the detonation of explosives stockpiled for attacks against security forces and civilians.
According to reliable sources, the explosion occurred in a compound being used by the group’s district operational commander, Siddiqullah Gurbaz, who had allegedly taken over a jirga hall belonging to former PTI provincial minister Shah Mohammad Wazir. The site had reportedly been converted into an operational centre for planning and coordinating militant activities.
Sources revealed that the blast was so intense it completely destroyed the compound, killing all those present. At least 13 militants are confirmed dead, and initial reports suggest that Siddiqullah Gurbaz was among those killed. Due to the scale of destruction, the actual number of fatalities may be higher, though official confirmation is still awaited.
Preliminary findings indicate that the explosion was accidental and caused by the mishandling or detonation of the very explosives the militants had stored for future attacks. A large cache of improvised explosive devices (IEDs), grenades, rocket launchers, and other bomb-making materials was reportedly housed inside the facility.
Authorities believe the weapons were intended for use in planned terrorist attacks targeting security personnel and innocent civilians in the region.
The incident is being seen as a major blow to the Hafiz Gul Bahadur faction and the broader Khawarij network operating in the tribal belt. It also highlights the persistent threat posed by such groups, who continue to exploit local infrastructure and civilian properties for their violent operations.
Security forces have since cordoned off the area, and investigations are underway to assess the full extent of the damage and identify any remaining threats.
