Security forces in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa’s Bajaur district successfully defused explosives planted by militants in the same area where, a day earlier, two young men were martyred in a blast caused by an improvised device left behind by terrorists. The atmosphere in the region remains mournful after the tragic incident.
According to sources, multiple explosive devices had been planted at different points in the Jannat Shah area of Tehsil Khar. A Bomb Disposal Squad team recovered the devices and rendered them safe through professional expertise, preventing what officials described as another major catastrophe.
It is worth noting that Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, especially the adjoining tribal districts, had been cleared of militant presence through extensive counterterrorism operations, yet these enemies of humanity planted landmines and explosives across various locations before fleeing. These devices continue to cause tragic incidents from time to time. Innocent civilians, including children, as well as law enforcement personnel, remain among the victims, and many soldiers have laid down their lives while clearing landmines and improvised explosive devices during ongoing operations.
The Pakistan Army continues its critical efforts to neutralise explosives and landmines left behind by militants across Khyber Pakhtunkhwa’s tribal districts, part of an extensive initiative to protect local communities and restore normalcy in previously terror affected areas.
During the War on Terror, militants had heavily mined tribal districts to target both civilians and security forces. After successful operations, comprehensive demining campaigns were launched. Soldiers continue to risk their lives daily to detect, defuse and remove explosive devices.
Of the 114 square kilometres identified as high risk, 82 square kilometres have now been fully cleared, including devices planted by militants and others laid due to local disputes. The process remains painstaking and dangerous, often requiring hours to clear even a single kilometre.
These operations have come with significant sacrifices. Five soldiers have been martyred, and 115 personnel have sustained life altering injuries in the line of duty. Large quantities of ammunition have also been recovered, some placed dangerously close to civilian areas.
The continued threat was evident on 26 November when two young individuals in Janat Shah, Tehsil Khar, Bajaur, lost their lives after coming into contact with explosives left behind by militants. Similar tragedies have occurred in Bajaur, Lakki Marwat and other districts. Authorities urge residents in uncleared areas to remain extremely cautious.
Yesterday, on 26 November, security forces foiled a terrorist attempt to target a military convoy in North Waziristan’s busy Spinwam Bazaar. Militants associated with the so called Khawarij planted an improvised explosive device, which was detected in time and safely defused, preventing large scale casualties in the crowded area.
Soon after, security forces cordoned off the location and launched a clearance operation. Investigations are underway.
Earlier, a police checkpoint in the Mandan area of Bannu came under attack when motorcycle borne militants opened fire during routine checking. Police retaliated, killing one terrorist and injuring another. Senior officers praised the personnel involved and announced commendation certificates and cash rewards.
On 22 November, Bannu Police foiled a major terrorist plot in Basih Khel aimed at destroying the Dawa Bridge. A locally made IED containing 8 to 10 kilograms of explosives had been attached to the central pillar of the bridge. The Bomb Disposal Squad responded swiftly and neutralised the device, preventing a large scale tragedy.
Authorities stressed that safeguarding public infrastructure remains a critical priority. Residents expressed gratitude for the timely action, noting that such extremist elements aim to destroy both lives and essential structures.
These incidents represent only a fraction of the ongoing threat landscape, where security officials and innocent civilians continue to face danger from explosives, landmines and IEDs planted across multiple districts. The persistent efforts of security forces have saved countless lives, yet the remnants left by militants continue to pose a deadly challenge.
