BANNU: The police and law-enforcement agencies defused six improvised explosive devices during a search and combing operation in various areas of Bannu’s Miryan tehsil, and also arrested 14 suspected individuals.

According to a press release issued by the Bannu police, personnel of the police, the Elite Force, the Quick Response Force, the bomb disposal unit and the Counter-Terrorism Department took part in the operation.

The police said two Kalashnikovs, a repeater shotgun, four rifles, a cache of ammunition and eight motorcycles were also seized in the action.

The release said that BDU experts defused six IEDs containing 120kg explosives in the Mambati Barakzai and Khanikhel areas.

Residents remain confined to their homes, while a shortage of essential food items added to their hardships. Many families faced difficulties obtaining basic necessities.

According to sources, ration packages for approximately 600 stranded families were arranged and handed over to security forces for onward distribution as soon as the security situation improved.

The ongoing operation disrupted routine life across the district. Security measures and the closure of key roads created uncertainty, confining residents indoors.

Major roads, including Bannu Police Lines Road, Predy Gate Road, and Miranshah Road, remain closed, causing traffic congestion in the city. Although markets remained partially open, business activities were significantly affected due to security concerns and uncertainty.

Suspension of internet and mobile phone services disrupted business, educational, and official activities.

Published in Dawn, July 21st, 2026