By: Salman Ali Khan
BANNU: Militants operating in Bannu have begun using modern warfare technology, including quadcopter drones, night-vision devices and laser-guided weapons, marking a dangerous shift in militant attacks and intensifying fear among civilians.
According to local sources, the frequency of militant attacks has increased in recent months, with quadcopter drones emerging as a new and effective tool for carrying out targeted strikes. Unlike traditional weapons, these drones are costly, technologically advanced and capable of hitting specific targets with precision.
Official data shows that during 2025, more than 20 militant attacks were carried out on government installations and residential houses across various parts of Bannu. These incidents claimed the lives of at least nine civilians, while over 35 people, including police personnel, were injured.
Most of the attacks were reported in Bakakhel tehsil, Miryan police station limits and different localities of Miryan tehsil, where women and children were also among those who became victims.
Regional Police Officer Sajjad Khan said security forces had adopted special measures to counter drone attacks. He claimed that over 300 potential attacks were foiled during 2025, and four militant-operated quadcopter drones were disabled.
Despite these efforts, residents say the use of drones has created widespread panic. “People no longer feel safe even inside their homes,” said Mir Muhammad Khan, a resident of Khudri Mamandkhel. Recounting a recent incident, he said a drone attack took place while his children were playing at home during Asr prayers. “When we returned from the mosque, the children were covered in blood. Two were injured, while others fainted out of fear,” he said.
Malik Faiz Muhammad, president of the Bakakhel tehsil youth committee, said drone flights had become a routine occurrence in the area. “Women and children are living under constant fear, and normal life has been severely disrupted,” he added.
Residents urged the government and relevant institutions to take immediate and effective action to counter the growing threat of drone attacks, warning that modern warfare tactics were leaving ordinary citizens increasingly vulnerable, particularly children.
