Gunmen Target Police Convoy
Bannu, Pakistan – Four people, including Shah Waliullah, the Assistant Commissioner of North Waziristan, died in an armed attack on Miranshah Road in Bannu. Unidentified gunmen ambushed a police vehicle near a local flour mill, targeting the senior official.
Police stated that the attackers opened fire without warning. During the attack, they injured two officers and disarmed them before fleeing the scene.
Casualties and Immediate Response
Initial reports indicate that three people, including two police officers, died instantly. One critically injured officer later succumbed to his wounds, bringing the total number of deaths to four.
The Assistant Commissioner’s office confirmed that Shah Waliullah’s official vehicle was the target. He traveled with a police driver and two officers, all of whom faced heavy gunfire. Shah Waliullah and both officers died at the scene, while the driver sustained injuries.
Authorities Launch Search
After the attack, law enforcement officers cordoned off the area and began hunting for the gunmen. They are actively patrolling nearby roads and villages to track down the attackers.
Officials have urged local residents to stay alert and report any suspicious activity. Security forces also increased checkpoints along main roads to prevent further incidents.
Context and Regional Security
North Waziristan, part of Pakistan’s former tribal areas, has faced militant activity for decades. Despite recent stability, the region remains volatile, with security forces occasionally encountering armed resistance.
Bannu serves as a key administrative hub for southern Khyber Pakhtunkhwa and acts as a transit point for officials traveling to North Waziristan. While attacks on government convoys remain rare, militants occasionally target high-ranking officials along these routes.
Protecting Officials in Volatile Zones
Authorities have recently strengthened convoy security for senior officials in high-risk areas. Analysts say the attack highlights the persistent dangers officials face in Pakistan’s northwestern districts.
Security experts recommend rapid intelligence-sharing and reinforced convoy protection, including armored vehicles and armed escorts, to prevent similar incidents.
Investigation Underway
Police teams collected evidence at the scene and reviewed CCTV footage from nearby areas. Investigators are questioning locals to help identify the gunmen.
No group has claimed responsibility yet, but officials suspect local militant networks that remain active in parts of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa and the former tribal belt. Authorities continue to probe potential motives, including possible retaliation against administrative or security actions.
Reactions from Officials
Local authorities expressed condolences to the families of the victims and promised to bring the attackers to justice. Provincial and national leaders called for increased vigilance along key travel routes.
The attack has raised concern about the safety of law enforcement personnel and government officials in the region. Security agencies are now reviewing travel protocols for officials and boosting patrols in vulnerable areas.
