By Ashrafuddin Pirzada
PESHAWAR: The security situation in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa continued to worsen, with new police data revealing a significant rise in murders, attempted murders and kidnappings across the province during the past year.
According to figures released by Peshawar Police, more than 3,200 people have been killed between January 2024 and October 2025, making it one of the deadliest stretches in recent times. Murder cases increased from 2,604 in 2024 to more than 3,200 in 2025, while attempted murder cases remained similarly high with 2,863 incidents reported last year.
Kidnappings also rose sharply, with 934 cases registered in 2024 compared to 993 in 2025, underlining persistent insecurity and a growing threat to public safety.
In contrast, property-related crimes saw a slight decline. Theft cases fell from 1,321 in 2024 to 1,173 in 2025, vehicle thefts dropped from 1,073 to 958 and robbery cases decreased marginally from 586 to 573 during the same period.
The deteriorating security climate has further compounded challenges for journalists, particularly those reporting from the merged districts. Reporters working in conflict-hit areas say they face increasing threats, intimidation and restrictions on movement as militant activity resurges. Several journalists have complained of receiving warnings from militant groups, while others say they struggle to access information due to fear of reprisals against their families or sources.
Local journalist associations warn that the worsening environment has made independent reporting extremely difficult. Many correspondents in tribal and rural areas now avoid covering sensitive topics, fearing that rising violence and weak state protection leave them exposed to danger.
Peshawar’s Capital City Police Officer said multiple measures are being taken to curb violent crime, strengthen law enforcement and restore public confidence. He urged citizens to remain vigilant and immediately report any suspicious activity to authorities.
Despite these assurances, residents and journalists alike remain concerned that Khyber Pakhtunkhwa is slipping into deeper instability, with violent crime rising and frontline reporters operating under unprecedented risk.
