Security Forces Successfully Complete Operation Against Terrorists on Jaffer Express, 33 Killed, 21 Innocent Lives Lost

Balochistan:Security forces have successfully concluded an operation against terrorists who attacked the Jaffer Express traveling from Quetta to Peshawar. The operation, which led to the elimination of 33 terrorists, also resulted in the martyrdom of 4 FC personnel. Unfortunately, 21 innocent passengers were killed by the terrorists during the attack.

Director-General of ISPR, Lieutenant General Ahmed Sharif Chaudhry, briefed the media regarding the attack, stating that on March 11 at 1:00 PM, a bomb blast took place near Bolan, which initially targeted the railway track. The terrorists later stopped the Jaffer Express and held the passengers hostage.

**Terrorists’ Link to Afghanistan**
General Chaudhry further stated that the terrorists were in contact with their facilitators in Afghanistan during the operation. In response, the security forces launched a full-scale operation to rescue the hostages, successfully neutralizing all 33 terrorists. The forces also took down suicide bombers during the operation.

Despite the terrorist assault, General Chaudhry confirmed that no further passengers were harmed during the clearance operation. However, prior to the operation, the terrorists had killed 21 innocent passengers.

**Martyrdom of FC Personnel**
The DG ISPR also expressed sorrow over the martyrdom of 4 FC personnel who lost their lives while carrying out the operation. Security sources reported that among the terrorists were suicide bombers who used women and children as human shields. A video footage of the clearance operation shows the terrorists had divided the hostages into different groups.

In the video, the rescued passengers are seen being safely moved to secure locations by Pakistani Army personnel. The army forces skillfully ensured that no suicide bomber was allowed to detonate.

**Presidential Tribute to Security Forces**
Meanwhile, President Asif Ali Zardari praised the security forces for their successful operation on the Jaffer Express. He expressed deep sorrow over the martyrdom of 21 civilians and 4 FC personnel during the attack and commended the forces for their effective action, which led to the elimination of 33 terrorists.

President Zardari acknowledged the professionalism of the forces in rescuing the passengers and paying tribute to the fallen FC personnel. He also offered prayers for the martyrs’ families, expressing condolences and emphasizing the commitment to eradicate terrorism and maintain peace in Balochistan.

**ISPR Statement on Operation Success**
In a statement, the ISPR highlighted the unwavering courage and professionalism of the security forces, who carried out a prolonged, intense, and daring operation. The operation resulted in the systematic rescue of the hostages and the killing of all 33 terrorists, including suicide bombers. The ISPR noted that the terrorists had killed 21 innocent passengers before the operation began and praised the bravery of the 4 FC soldiers who made the ultimate sacrifice to save many lives.

**Terrorists Linked to Afghanistan**
The ISPR also confirmed that intelligence reports indicated the attack was orchestrated by terrorist groups operating from Afghanistan. The terrorist leaders were directly in contact with the attackers throughout the event. Pakistan has expressed hope that the interim Afghan government will fulfill its responsibilities and deny the use of its soil for terrorist activities against Pakistan.

This operation serves as a testament to the determination and capability of Pakistan’s security forces in the ongoing fight against terrorism.