PESHAWAR – A grim annual report has detailed a massive spike in terrorism in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa (KP), with 1,762 violent incidents recorded across the province during 2025. The data, released by the provincial police, identifies Bannu as the most volatile district, topping the list with 430 reported cases, followed closely by North Waziristan with 213 and Dera Ismail Khan with 173 incidents.
The sustained wave of terrorism in KP has resulted in the loss of 502 lives, including both security personnel and civilians. The police department faced a heavy toll in the line of duty, with 159 officers martyred and 272 others wounded during various attacks and counter-terror operations.
Analysis of Modern Tactics and Attacks
The report highlights an alarming evolution in the tactics used during the year’s surge of terrorism in KP. Beyond traditional methods, militants utilized advanced technology, carrying out 80 drone strikes and firing 34 missiles or rockets. The province also faced 9 suicide bombings, 71 hand grenade attacks, and 179 incidents involving improvised explosive devices (IEDs).
Security forces responded with aggressive targeted operations to dismantle militant networks. These actions led to the killing of 395 terrorists throughout the year. Additionally, the Counter-Terrorism Department (CTD) registered 151 cases for facilitation and 26 cases related to terror financing to cut off the resources fueling the violence.
Regional Impact and Targeted Crime
The violence extended across 14 districts, significantly impacting local security and the economy. The data reveals a breakdown of the specific types of crimes linked to terrorism in KP:
- Targeted Killings and Firing: 117 cases of targeted killings were reported, alongside 628 separate firing incidents.
- Kidnappings and Extortion: Militants kidnapped 88 individuals and filed 149 demands for extortion (Bhatta) from local citizens and businesses.
- Southern Districts: South Waziristan remained a critical flashpoint, recording 111 incidents of violence.
Despite the intensity of the attacks, law enforcement agencies continue to focus on institutional measures, including placing high-risk suspects on the Fourth Schedule list. As 2025 concludes, the data serves as a stark reminder of the persistent security challenges and the urgent need for a unified strategy to eliminate terrorism in KP.
