A bomb-laden vehicle attacked a joint security checkpost in Bajaur, Khyber Pakhtunkhwa on February 16. The military’s media wing, ISPR, said 11 security personnel sacrificed their lives in the blast. The attackers were part of the banned Tehreek-i-Taliban Pakistan, referred to by the state as “Fitna al Khwarij.” ISPR said, "On February 16, a cowardly terrorist attack was attempted on security forces and law enforcement agencies’ joint check Post in Bajaur District by Khwarij belonging to Indian Proxy, Fitna al Khwarij." The terrorists rammed the explosive vehicle directly into the checkpost’s wall. The blast caused the checkpost to collapse. Several nearby homes were also affected. Tragically, a young innocent girl died in the attack. Seven others, including women and children, were injured. Security forces responded quickly, killing 12 terrorists who tried to flee. ISPR said, "In their desperation, the attackers rammed an explosive-laden vehicle into the perimeter wall. Due to the blast impact infrastructure at check post collapsed resultantly eleven brave sons of soil, rendered the ultimate sacrifice and [embracing] martyrdom." Sanitisation operations are ongoing to remove any remaining terrorists. The security campaign, called “Azm e Istehkam,” aims to end foreign-backed terrorism in Pakistan. The ISPR statement praised the fallen soldiers and civilians and affirmed Pakistan’s strong commitment to national safety. This attack follows other recent violence in Bajaur, including the killing of a senior police officer in War Mamund tehsil. The region has seen a rise in deadly attacks. According to the Centre for Research and Security Studies, fatalities in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa jumped from 1,620 in 2024 to 2,331 in 2025, a 44% increase. This tragic blast highlights growing security challenges in the province and the continuing fight against terrorism.