Unidentified terrorists destroyed a government girls' primary school in the Sara Ghora area of Barmal Tehsil, South Waziristan Lower, using explosives during the night between Tuesday and Wednesday. The blast was powerful enough to reduce the entire building to rubble. District Police Officer (DPO) Muhammad Tahir Shah Wazir confirmed the incident, stating that a case has been registered and an investigation is underway. No group has claimed responsibility, but initial evidence points to an act of terrorism. Local sources reported that this is the third government educational institution targeted with explosives in South Waziristan Lower in recent months.
Condemnation and Concerns
Tribal elders and civil society strongly condemned the attack, describing assaults on educational institutions as attacks on the region's future. This incident highlights the challenges faced by girls' education in remote areas, which already struggles with numerous obstacles.
Bannu District Security Incidents
On Wednesday, Bannu district witnessed a series of security incidents that left residents deeply worried. Terrorists used a quadcopter to drop two locally made bombs inside the premises of the Haved Police Station in the morning. The explosions injured two FC personnel and caused partial damage to two official vehicles. The injured personnel received immediate medical treatment.
Teacher Abduction and Drone Attack
In a separate incident, Nisar Ahmed, head teacher of the Government High School in Mandiu area of Miryan Tehsil, was allegedly abducted by armed men from the school premises. The kidnapping has caused widespread concern in educational circles, with teachers expressing fears over their safety. On Tuesday evening, a suspected drone attack in the Narmi Khel area under Bakakhel Police Station injured rickshaw driver Asifullah. He was shifted to a nearby health facility for treatment.
Mortar Shelling and Abductions
On Tuesday, mortar shells were fired at Bannu Cantonment. Two mortar rounds landed at the old ROD Ground, exploding with a loud bang. Fortunately, no casualties were reported, though panic spread in the area. Additionally, retired FC man Ali Mar Khan was abducted from Jani Khel.
