Syed Ali Shah, Manan Mandokhail, News Desk, Nashad Baloch:
In a decisive operation following the Jaffar Express incident, Pakistan’s security forces have successfully rescued all hostages while neutralizing 33 terrorists responsible for the attack. The militants had boarded the passenger train, splitting the hostages into smaller groups, which further escalated the risk to innocent lives. Despite these challenges, the security teams prevented any additional casualties by swiftly countering the suicide bombers, who had attempted to use explosive vests while positioning vulnerable passengers as human shields.
Passengers Transported To Quetta
The rescued passengers were immediately transferred to Quetta, the provincial capital of Balochistan, where scenes of deep emotional distress unfolded at the railway station. Many passengers, particularly women, were seen in tears as they recounted the traumatic ordeal. One distraught mother, in a moment of raw anguish, confronted officials and questioned, “Where is your response? My son is still in the custody of militants!” Her plea echoed the collective heartbreak and urgency felt by the survivors and their families.
Additional Security Forces Deployed
In response to the evolving situation, additional security personnel have been deployed to the mountainous Bolan valley. Their mission is to conduct a thorough search for any remaining militants, ensuring that no threat lingers in the region. At the same time, security has been significantly tightened in Quetta and across various sensitive areas in Balochistan to maintain public safety and deter any further acts of terror.
CM Bugti Condemns The Attack
Chief Minister Mir Sarfaraz Bugti has taken proactive measures by convening a high-level meeting with top security and government officials to assess the situation in the aftermath of the attack. During the meeting, he reiterated the government’s steadfast commitment to a zero-tolerance policy against terrorism and emphasized the need for a unified, strategic response to restore stability and public confidence. The chief minister also condemned the incident in the strongest terms, urging that those responsible be held accountable without delay.
This coordinated effort by the security forces and the government reflects a broader national resolve to combat terrorism and protect innocent lives. The proactive measures in the Bolan valley and across Balochistan are a testament to the country’s determination to overcome adversity, ensuring that such a grievous incident never repeats. As Pakistan moves forward, the solidarity and resilience demonstrated by its people, together with decisive government action, will be pivotal in restoring peace and security throughout the region.
30 Attackers Killed
The extensive operation to liberate passengers from the seized Jaffar Express has reached its second day, with security forces successfully freeing at least 190 individuals and neutralizing 30 attackers, according to state media reports on Wednesday.
The assault took place on Tuesday near the Mashkaf Tunnel, roughly 157 kilometers from Quetta. The situation swiftly escalated into an unprecedented hostage standoff as armed attackers stormed the train, seizing more than 400 passengers, including security personnel. At the time, the Jaffar Express was transporting approximately 450 individuals, including law enforcement officials. The Balochistan Liberation Army (BLA) has since asserted responsibility for the attack.
70 To 80 Attackers Involved
In response to the crisis, security personnel initiated an extensive counteroperation, successfully eliminating 30 attackers. According to the Interior Ministry, an estimated 70 to 80 attackers were involved. Thus far, 190 passengers have been rescued, including 37 who sustained injuries. Among them, 57 have been transferred to Quetta for medical care. Reports also indicate that the assailants maintained communication with their accomplices in Afghanistan, heightening concerns over cross-border militancy.
Authorities have established a support desk and crisis center to aid the families of affected passengers. Meanwhile, the assault has drawn strong denunciation from the United States, China, the United Nations, Iran, and Germany, with calls for immediate and decisive action against extremist activities in the region.
Security officials have confirmed that the operation remains active, with ongoing efforts to subdue the remaining assailants and secure the safety of all captives. Injured passengers are receiving medical assistance, while authorities closely monitor the unfolding situation.
State media reports suggest that intelligence sources indicate the attackers were receiving instructions from across the border in Afghanistan. The incident has sent ripples of alarm throughout the country, reigniting concerns over railway safety and prompting global appeals for reinforced counterterrorism measures.
