The Khyber Pakhtunkhwa (KP) province has witnessed a harrowing toll of violence this year, with 275 individuals martyred and 460 others injured in 636 terrorist attacks, according to a detailed report compiled by the Khyber Pakhtunkhwa Police.
The report, released by the Counter-Terrorism Department (CTD), highlights the devastating impact of terrorism on both civilians and security personnel in the region.
Of the total number of martyrs, 142 were police officials, while 133 were civilians. The report also recorded 214 police officers and 246 civilians among the injured.
The attacks, carried out by banned organizations, included six suicide bombings, 113 IED blasts, and 355 instances of gunfire across various parts of the province. These incidents have added to the ongoing security challenges faced by the province, which continues to be a battleground for extremist groups.
Counter-terrorism efforts and operations
In response to the growing wave of terror, the provincial government, along with the CTD, has intensified efforts to combat the insurgents. The CTD report states that 2,981 intelligence-based operations (IBOs) were conducted throughout the year, resulting in the deaths of 246 terrorists.
Additionally, 739 terrorists were arrested, 29 of whom were identified as high-profile targets.
Significant material recoveries were also made during these operations, including 849 kilograms of explosives, 162 hand grenades, seven suicide jackets, and numerous firearms. These seizures underscore the persistent threat posed by the insurgent networks operating within and around the province.
Govt's response and future plans
Khyber Pakhtunkhwa Chief Minister Ali Amin Gandapur recently addressed the media at the CTD headquarters in Peshawar, emphasizing the provincial government's ongoing efforts to curb terrorism.
"The law and order situation in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa has improved significantly under our government's administration," Gandapur stated. "We have 16 active CTD stations across the province, and we are strengthening the prosecution process as well."
Highlighting the government's commitment to improving security infrastructure, the Chief Minister announced a release of one billion rupees for the CTD, aimed at enhancing forensics capabilities within the province. Furthermore, the government plans to purchase 20 bomb-proof vehicles to bolster the province's security apparatus and reduce vulnerabilities during operations.
