By Syed Tqauqeer Zaidi
BANNU: Four members of a local peace committee, including a father and his son, were killed on Tuesday in a targeted terrorist attack in Bannu district, officials said, marking yet another violent strike against community leaders working to maintain law and order.
Police reported that the incident took place in the Huwed area as the victims were returning from a jirga held in Gulbadin Landai Dhok. Their vehicle was ambushed at a pre-determined spot by unidentified gunmen who opened indiscriminate fire, killing all four occupants instantly. The identities of the victims have not yet been publicly disclosed, though police confirmed that a father and his son were among those killed.
A large contingent of police and security personnel quickly reached the site, shifted the bodies to the District Headquarters Hospital in Bannu, and cordoned off the area to prevent further incidents. A search operation was launched immediately, and checkpoints were established at strategic locations to track and apprehend the attackers.
The attack has sent shockwaves through the local community, with residents expressing fear and condemnation. Many called on the government and law enforcement agencies to ensure the swift arrest of those responsible and to take strict measures to protect peace committee members, who often face threats for their efforts to mediate disputes and maintain stability in the region.
Authorities have pledged to intensify security operations and said that investigations are ongoing to identify and neutralize the perpetrators behind the attack.
