Terrorists opened fire on employees of the Water and Power Development Authority (WAPDA) near the Domel Adhami Bridge in Bannu, injuring two staff members and attempting to abduct a senior official, in an incident that has once again raised serious concerns over the security situation in the area.
According to official sources, the attack occurred while WAPDA personnel were performing routine official duties. As a result of the terrorist firing, two WAPDA employees were injured and immediately shifted to a nearby hospital for medical treatment.
The injured have been identified as Abdullah Khan, the driver, and Noor Muhammad, a lineman. Hospital authorities have confirmed that both injured employees are out of danger and are receiving appropriate medical care.
Sources further disclosed that the terrorists also attempted to abduct WAPDA Superintendent Umar Dar Ali, who was present at the site. However, due to resistance and swift reaction at the scene, the abduction attempt failed, forcing the attackers to flee.
Confirming the incident, WAPDA PESCO Bannu spokesperson Umar Ali Khan stated that the employees were on official duty when they were targeted. He strongly condemned the attack and stressed the urgent need for improved security arrangements for field staff operating in sensitive areas.
Police officials also confirmed the incident, stating that the area was immediately cordoned off. Search operations and snap checkpoints have been established at multiple locations, while investigations are underway to identify and apprehend the terrorists involved.
It is noteworthy that this is not an isolated incident. In a previous case, five WAPDA employees were abducted in Bannu and were recovered safely after nearly two months following successful negotiations. The recurrence of such attacks has once again highlighted the fragile security environment in the region.
Authorities have reiterated their resolve to ensure the protection of public service employees and to bring the perpetrators to justice, emphasizing that such cowardly acts will not deter efforts to maintain essential services and public safety.
