BANNU: A police constable was martyred after unidentified assailants opened fire on him near Lora Bridge here on Monday.

Police identified the deceased as Umar Niaz Khan, who was on his way to report for duty.

He was posted at the Bannu deputy inspector general’s bungalow.

Local sources also said that unidentified armed assailants forced the police constable off a rickshaw before opening fire on him and killing him on the spot.

Following the attack, the police and the peace committee cordoned off the area.

They launched a search operation to trace the attackers, and efforts were underway to apprehend those responsible.

Later, the funeral prayers for the fallen police officer were offered at the police lines, where fellow officers and officials paid tribute to his sacrifice.

Bannu district has witnessed repeated security incidents in recent months, with both civilians and locals ecurity forces coming under attack.

Published in Dawn, June 30th, 2026