The Human Rights Commission of Pakistan, HRCP, has voiced concern over the worsening security and human rights situation in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, highlighting a situation of fear, lawlessness and erosion of civilian authorities in the province.

In its latest fact-finding report titled ‘Caught in the Crossfire’, the HRCP stated that nearly two-thirds of all attacks that were reported in Pakistan this year took place in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, majorly targeting security forces and law enforcement agencies.

According to the report, the epicentre of violence was the districts, where people continue to face insecurity, forced displacement and limited access to justice.

The fact-finding mission noted that civilian casualties and intelligence-based operations were carried out without civilian oversight regularly, while police and local officials were not involved in important decisions about law and order.

According to HRCP, testimonies from impacted communities showcase growing frustration about arbitrary detentions, the continued operation of internment centres set up under the Actions (in Aid of Civil Power) Ordinance, 2019, and the continued incidents of enforced disappearances.

The report noted that journalists covering these issues face censorship, threats and targeted attacks, which further undermine transparency and freedom of expression. Tribal elders, political advocates and advocates of peace also face attacks, sparking a deep sense of insecurity and mistrust.