The security situation in Pakistan deteriorated in May, with a notable increase in terrorist attacks in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa and Balochistan. The Pakistan Institute for Conflict and Security Studies (PICSS) reported a rise in terror incidents during May, following a brief period of reduced activity, particularly in the mentioned regions. The escalation in attacks, casualties, suicide bombings, and kidnappings indicates ongoing severe security challenges.
In May, there were 128 terrorist attacks compared to 101 in April, marking a 27% increase. The attacks resulted in the deaths of 71 civilians, 68 security personnel, and six peace committee members, with 147 people injured. Civilian casualties surged from 37 to 71, a 92% increase, while security personnel fatalities rose from 28 to 68, a 143% rise. Additionally, six suicide attacks in May claimed the lives of 34 security personnel and nine civilians.
Balochistan bore the brunt of the violence in May, experiencing 71 terrorist attacks compared to 34 in April, a 109% increase. The province also witnessed 54 kidnappings, with 52 occurring in Balochistan alone. The Human Rights Commission of Pakistan (HRCP) expressed alarm over the deteriorating security situation in Balochistan and Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, where residents faced enforced disappearances, targeted killings, and militant assaults.
HRCP raised concerns about the security lapses, citing the alleged kidnapping of university officials in Mastung and the killing of Professor Ghamkhwar Hayat in Noshki. The organization emphasized the need for immediate action to protect civilians and public spaces, urging credible investigations into the attacks and accountability for the perpetrators.
