Following a two-month reprieve, Pakistan witnessed a significant resurgence in militant activity during November 2023, with attacks rising by 34%.
Data compiled by the Islamabad-based Pakistan Institute for Conflict and Security Studies (PICSS) reveals a disturbing rise in violence:
63 militant attacks: This represents a 34% increase compared to October 2023.
83 fatalities: This includes 37 security forces personnel and 33 civilians, marking a 63% increase in deaths.
89 individuals injured: 53 civilians and 36 security personnel sustained injuries, reflecting an 89% increase.
Despite these alarming figures, Pakistani security forces responded decisively, eliminating at least 59 militants and apprehending 18 suspected militants.
Year-to-date comparison:
-599 militant attacks: This represents an 81% increase compared to the first eleven months of 2022.
-897 fatalities: This signifies an 86% increase in deaths.
-1,241 injuries: This reflects a 64% rise in injuries.
Geographic distribution:
Khyber Pakhtunkhwa: The most affected province, with 81% of total attacks, 65% of total deaths, and 91% of injuries occurring in this region.
Balochistan: Nine attacks, resulting in 18 fatalities (15 security personnel and 3 civilians) and 8 injuries (5 civilians and 3 security personnel).
Sindh: Two minor attacks resulting in two fatalities.
Punjab: Witnessed a high-profile attack on the Mianwali Air Base, marking a distinctive incident for the province.
December 1, 2023
Source: The News International