Protests Continue in Bannu, Business and Traffic Unaffected

Islamabad:On the third consecutive day, traders’ associations, social societies, religious scholars, and political parties continue their sit-in protest at Police Line Chowk in Bannu. Despite the protest, business activities in the city remain active and traffic flows as usual, while mobile phone services have been restored in the city and surrounding areas.

The protest committee has demanded enhanced police powers and nighttime patrols in the area, urging for a joint operation with the Counter-Terrorism Department (CTD) against terrorists. The committee also insists on the recovery of missing persons.

It is recalled that a few days ago, an “Aman March” was organized in Bannu, which escalated into violence after firing incidents, resulting in four fatalities and multiple injuries. In response, the provincial Home Department stated that a peaceful gathering, including traders’ associations and political parties, was held on July 19th, which concluded peacefully. However, during the protest, miscreants pelted stones and set fire to tents at the Security Forces Supply Depot. According to the Home Department’s spokesperson, miscreants also brought down the walls of the depot, resulting in one fatality and injuries to 25 individuals during the police’s efforts to disperse them.