Official Report: 248 civilians and 205 security personnel were killed in 432 attacks across Balochistan in 2025

In 2025, Balochistan experienced one of its most violent years in recent history, with at least 248 civilians and 205 Pakistani security personnel losing their lives in a series of attacks, bombings, and armed incidents. Official figures released by security authorities highlight the severity of the year’s violence, indicating a tragic toll on both civilians and security forces. The year’s violence has deeply affected the social fabric of the region, leaving residents in a state of fear and uncertainty.

According to the government data, there were a total of 432 armed incidents across Balochistan throughout 2025. These incidents resulted in the deaths of hundreds of people, further destabilizing an already fragile security situation. The violence disrupted daily life for many residents, raising serious questions about the effectiveness of law enforcement and counterinsurgency efforts in the region.

The official statistics report that 284 civilians and 205 security personnel were killed during the year. However, some earlier figures cited by authorities suggest that the civilian death toll may be as high as 248. Despite ongoing military operations, the violence continues to cause widespread devastation, highlighting the persistent security challenges faced by authorities in maintaining peace.

Several major attacks marked the year, including six suicide bombings in cities such as Quetta, Mastung, Khuzdar, Turbat, and Nokundi. One notable incident occurred on 11 March, when Baloch “pro-independence” groups hijacked the Jaffer Express train in the Bolan area. Other significant events included targeted killings, such as the killing of seven people in Barkhan in February, and gunfire attacks on passenger coaches near Zhob and Kalat in July.

On 15 May, a devastating bus attack in Khuzdar resulted in six fatalities and left 43 others injured. The violence peaked with a suicide bombing at the Frontier Corps headquarters in Quetta on 30 September, which claimed 12 lives. These incidents underscored the ongoing threat posed by insurgent groups active in the region and the challenges faced by security forces in preventing such attacks.

In response to the escalating violence, Balochistan authorities reported that large-scale counterinsurgency operations were carried out throughout 2025. Officials, including Additional Chief Secretary Hamza Shafqaat and DIG Counter Terrorism Department Aitzaz, claimed that over 78,000 intelligence-based operations took place during the year. These operations reportedly resulted in the killing of 707 members of Baloch “pro-independence” groups, reflecting the scale of security efforts undertaken.

Despite these claims, security officials acknowledge that threats in Balochistan remain persistent. While continuous operations have been conducted against armed groups, the security situation remains fragile, with violence and instability ongoing. Officials admit that the region continues to face significant security challenges that hinder efforts to restore lasting peace.

Overall, 2025 has been described by government officials as a disappointing year for peace and stability in Balochistan. Residents and civil society groups express growing concern over what they see as failures in security management. Many have called on the government to adopt more effective measures to protect the public and bring an end to the cycle of violence that continues to plague the region.

However, the figures released by the government are met with skepticism by local communities and civil society groups. Critics argue that a large number of incidents go unreported or undercounted, and casualties among security personnel are also allegedly underreported by military authorities. These doubts cast a shadow over official claims, fueling calls for greater transparency and independent investigations into the true extent of violence in Balochistan.