Community in shock: People gathering near an ambulance outside a hospital after the suicide bombing in Bannu, Pakistan. — Reuters
Schools and shops closed as residents of a northwestern Pakistani city prepared for the funeral ceremonies for 12 people killed in a twin suicide bombing that targeted a military base the day before.
A group linked with the Pakistani Taliban claimed responsibility for the bombing in Bannu on Tuesday evening when two suicide bombers breached the wall surrounding the base.
Most of the local residents were breaking their daylong fast during the Muslim holy month of Ramadan or praying at a nearby mosque.
After the explosions, other attackers stormed the compound and set off a firefight with the troops.
The powerful blasts tore through walls and ripped off roofs and also severely damaged the mosque.
Along with the 12 killed, 30 people were also wounded in the attack, some of whom were reported to be in critical condition.
The casualty figures did not include troops.
It was not immediately known how many security forces were killed or injured in the assault or the subsequent gunfight.
Yesterday, a mechanical digger was clearing away rubble where homes used to stand, and debris-covered prayer mats lay crumpled on the mosque floor.
A day of mourning was being observed, said Bannu community elder Alam Khan, and joint funeral prayers were to be held for the victims at a sports complex in the area.
Gunshots could still be heard early yesterday as security forces combed through the area, looking to clear it of any militants involved in the attack.
“All education institutions are closed,” Khan said.
“Most shops are also shut.
“Rescue workers have completed their operation by recovering the bodies of three deceased worshippers who were trapped under the collapsed roof of the mosque.”
Bannu is located in the northwest province of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa that borders Afghanistan, and several armed groups are active there.
A group affiliated with the Pakistani Taliban, Jaish Al-Fursan, has claimed responsibility for the attack. — AP
