19 Dec 2022 | 06:32 PM UTC
Pakistan: Hostage stand-off at counterterrorism facility in Bannu, Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, continuing as of late Dec. 19 /update 1
Security operation continuing in Bannu, Pakistan, as of late Dec. 19. Telecommunication and internet suspended.
Event
Very tight security will likely continue in the cantonment area of Bannu, Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, into at least Dec. 20 amid an ongoing hostage situation at a Counterterrorism Department (CTD) facility in the town. Reports indicate over 30 jailed militants managed to take control of the facility Dec. 18 and are holding at least eight security officers hostage; the militants are demanding safe passage into Afghanistan. The Tehrik-e-Taliban Pakistan (TTP) has claimed responsibility for the incident. Officials did not immediately specify how many casualties may have occurred during the take-over.
Authorities have cordoned off the impacted area and have warned residents to remain indoors. Telecommunications and internet services have been suspended in the town. Officials may impose additional measures, such as enhanced checks, curfews, or evacuation orders in the vicinity to facilitate security operations if the situation escalates. Small arms fire and minor explosions are likely if security forces attempt to breach the facility.
The impact site is approximately 142 km (88 miles) southwest of Peshawar.
Context
The terrorism threat remains high in Pakistan, with the incident in Bannu being the latest of several that have occurred since TTP leaders called off a ceasefire with the Pakistani government on Nov. 28. TTP leaders have also exhorted their members to carry out nationwide attacks in retaliation for ongoing security operations in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa Province. The TTP, which is an organizationally distinct group from the Afghan Taliban, has been fighting an insurgency against Pakistani forces in Pashtun-dominated areas of the country's northwest along the Afghan frontier since at least 2007.
Advice
Strictly avoid the affected area until authorities give the all-clear. Plan accordingly for localized ground travel and business disruptions. Heed all official instructions including curfews and evacuation orders.
