ISLAMABAD: Security forces successfully thwarted a cowardly terrorist attack on Bannu Cantonment, Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, killing all 16 militants who attempted to intrude into the facility on March 4, according to a statement issued by the Inter-Services Public Relations (ISPR) on Wednesday. “In this intense exchange of fire, five brave soldiers, after putting up a heroic resistance, embraced martyrdom in the line of duty,” the military’s media wing added. However, in the exchange of fire, five soldiers were also martyred while putting up a heroic resistance, the military’s media wing said. As many as thirteen civilians were also martyred and 32 others were injured as a result of destruction caused by suicide blasts during the clash. “On 4 March 2025, a cowardly terrorist attack was attempted on Bannu Cantonment by Khwarij elements. The assailants sought to breach the cantonment’s security; however, their nefarious designs were swiftly and decisively foiled by the vigilant and resolute response of Pakistan’s security forces,” the ISPR said. It said that the attackers, in their desperation, rammed two explosive-laden vehicles into the perimeter wall. However, the valiant troops engaged the intruders with precision, eliminating all sixteen terrorists, including four suicide bombers in a display of unwavering courage and professional excellence. The military’s media wing said that multiple suicide blasts resulted in the partial collapse of the perimeter wall, causing damage to the adjacent infrastructure. Tragically, a mosque and a civilian residential building in close proximity also suffered severe destruction, leading to the martyrdom of thirteen civilians and injuries to thirty-two others, it added.The ISPR further stated that the physical involvement of Afghan nationals in this heinous act was unequivocally confirmed in intelligence reports, with evidence also pointing to the fact that the attack was orchestrated and directed by Khwarij ring leaders operating from Afghanistan. It said that Pakistan expected the interim Afghan government to uphold its responsibilities and deny its soil for terrorist activities against Pakistan. Pakistan reserves the right to take necessary measures in response to these threats emanating from across the border. “The security forces of Pakistan remain steadfast in their resolve to eradicate terrorism in all its forms. The sacrifices of our brave soldiers and innocent civilians further reinforce our unwavering commitment to safeguarding our nation at all costs,” the military’s media wing concluded.