Camp had been used by militants as cover for multiple attacks on security forces, says DPO
Militants attacked a police vehicle near an Afghan refugee camp on Kohat Road in Bannu on Saturday, prompting authorities to order the evacuation of the settlement on security grounds.
Police said the attack occurred when Deputy Superintendent Police Mufeez Khan was travelling from Township to Domel. According to officials, attackers hiding near the camp opened fire on his vehicle in what they described as a planned ambush. Police personnel returned fire, forcing the attackers to flee.
Read: Five policemen injured as security forces repel terrorist attack in Bannu
The police vehicle sustained partial damage, but no casualties were reported. Following the attack, police cordoned off the area and launched a search operation to trace the suspects.
District Police Officer Yaser Afridi said the camp had repeatedly been used by militants as cover for attacks on security forces. He said Afghan refugees residing there had already been given time to return to Afghanistan, and many families had done so. However, he added that due to security concerns and the continued misuse of the area by militants, authorities had ordered the evacuation of the remaining settlement.
Read more: Security forces kill 15 militants in Bannu, DI Khan, North Waziristan
District administration officials said the camp housed 2,567 individuals, of whom 1,700 had already returned to Afghanistan before Saturday’s incident. Following the attack, another 120 people from 20 families were repatriated. Heavy machinery has also been deployed to dismantle structures in the camp as part of the evacuation process.
Police officials said the law and order situation in the area remains under control and vowed to intensify action against militant elements while ensuring the protection of lives and property.
