Violence Erupts During Peace March in Bannu, Khyber Pakhtunkhwa

Bannu: A peace march in Bannu, southern districts of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, turned violent on Friday as unidentified assailants opened fire, resulting in one fatality and 15 injuries, according to a spokesperson for Bannu police. The spokesperson stated that the identity of the attackers remains unknown, and most of the injured sustained wounds while fleeing the scene.
In the wake of recent terrorist incidents, local leaders and residents of Bannu are organizing a peace march today, Friday, while markets and commercial centers remain closed. The incidents of terrorism have been escalating day by day in the southern districts of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa. Last week on Monday, July 15, militants attacked a camp in Kaint, resulting in the deaths of 8 security personnel and multiple injuries. The following day, on July 16, terrorists assaulted the Rural Health Center in Dera Ismail Khan, claiming the lives of 5 individuals, including 2 women and 2 children.
Amid the wave of instability and terrorism, the organizers of the Bannu Movement for Peace have called for a peace march on July 19, urging all political leaders, social figures, and business community to participate. Furthermore, a sit-in for peace will be held on Sunday, July 21, in Bannu, with local leaders and political figures expected to endorse a joint agreement.
Former Deputy Speaker of the National Assembly, Zahid Akram Durrani, emphasized the necessity for everyone to join the peace efforts, stating, “For peace and security, everyone must come out of their homes and make the peace strike successful, because with peace comes prosperity and happiness.”
Provincial Minister for Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, Pakhtun Yar Wali, informed Urdu News that a peaceful protest will be conducted in a lawful manner to record the government’s actions and stance for the awareness of the people. He reiterated the government’s firm stance against terrorists, asserting that protecting people’s lives and property is the government’s responsibility, and there will be no compromise on this matter. He added that the government will continue the fight against enemies of peace until the end.
The situation in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa remains tense as local authorities and community leaders strive to restore calm amidst escalating violence and terrorist activities.