Militants Hijack Jaffer Express in Balochistan: 17 Attackers Killed, 104 Passengers Freed

Quetta:In a harrowing incident on Tuesday afternoon, militants hijacked the Jaffer Express traveling from Quetta to Peshawar, taking place in the Bolan Pass near Miskaf, close to Tunnel No. 8. Passengers were taken hostage by the militants, and a standoff ensued between security forces and the attackers. According to security sources, 17 attackers have been killed so far, and 104 passengers have been freed.

Among those freed were 58 men, 31 women, and 15 children. They were transferred to Makh railway station via a freight train, where they are being provided with medical aid and food.

One passenger, reflecting the terrifying ordeal, shared, “When the attackers told us to get off the train, some passengers refused. But I thought if they wanted to kill us, they would do it right there. So, I decided to step off with my family.” The survivors described the terrifying moment when a loud explosion shook the train, followed by gunfire. In a panic, passengers hid under seats to avoid the firing.

Another eyewitness recalled how the militants entered the train and instructed passengers to disembark, threatening to burn the train. The passenger further described, “We thought whether we die here or there, it’s the same. We decided to leave and walked for four hours until we reached Panir.”

At the time of the hijacking, more than 400 passengers were aboard the train. Security forces continue to engage with the militants to resolve the situation and ensure the safety of those still held captive.