Khawarij destroyed the strategically important Loorah Fateh Khel Bridge in Bannu using explosive material, disrupting transportation and severing the only major road link connecting several surrounding areas with the city.
According to local police authorities, the bridge served as a critical route for residents of Noorar, Ghora Bakakhel, Jani Khel, and adjacent localities, facilitating daily movement, trade, emergency access, and transportation to and from Bannu city. Following the destruction of the bridge, land connectivity between these areas and the city has been completely cut off, leaving thousands of residents facing serious difficulties.
Officials stated that the blast caused extensive structural damage, rendering the bridge unusable and significantly impacting civilian mobility in the region. Authorities have initiated an assessment of the damage while alternative arrangements for transportation and emergency access are being considered.
Security sources revealed that the latest act of sabotage comes only two days after a suicide vehicle-borne attack targeted the Fateh Khel Police Post located near the same bridge. The powerful suicide car bombing completely destroyed the police checkpoint, highlighting what officials describe as a coordinated attempt by Khawarij elements to destabilize the region and undermine law enforcement presence.
Law enforcement agencies and security forces have launched investigations into the bridge bombing and are working to identify and track those involved in the attack. Security in the surrounding areas has also been heightened to prevent further incidents.
Authorities condemned the targeting of public infrastructure, stating that such attacks are intended to create fear, isolate communities, and disrupt normal life for civilians. Officials reiterated that operations against Khawarij networks and their facilitators would continue with full determination.
Residents of the affected areas have expressed concern over the disruption caused by the destruction of the bridge, particularly regarding access to healthcare, markets, educational institutions, and emergency services. Meanwhile, administrative authorities are expected to begin planning for the restoration and reconstruction of the damaged infrastructure to re-establish connectivity for the affected populations.
Security agencies reaffirmed their commitment to maintaining peace and stability in the region and ensuring that those responsible for attacks on civilians and public infrastructure are brought to justice
