Security Forces Continue Operation After Terrorist Attack on Jaffar Express in Balochistan; 155 Hostages Rescued, 27 Militants Killed

Bolan:The operation by security forces in Bolan, following the terrorist attack on Jaffar Express, continues. As of now, 155 hostages have been successfully rescued, and 27 militants have been killed.

According to security sources, the terrorists are using suicide bombers as human shields, which is why the security forces are exercising extreme caution during the operation to avoid further casualties. The terrorists have reportedly placed suicide bombers near the hostages, with the bombers wearing explosive vests.

Previously, 107 passengers were rescued, including 58 men, 31 women, and 15 children. Additionally, 17 injured individuals have been transferred to hospitals. The rescued passengers were transported to Mach Railway Station via a freight train, where they were provided with initial medical care.

Security sources further revealed that the terrorists are in contact with their handlers abroad through satellite phones, and due to the ongoing operations, the militants have split into smaller groups. Additional troops have been deployed in the area to tighten the encirclement around the terrorists.

A passenger who was freed in the operation described the situation, stating, “There was firing, but thanks to Allah, the army and FC personnel safely brought us here. The army and FC personnel rescued us and safely brought us to this location.”

The train, which consisted of 9 carriages, was carrying over 400 passengers. Railway authorities confirmed that the Jaffar Express left Quetta at 9:00 AM on Tuesday, en route to Peshawar. During the journey, the train was targeted with an explosion on the track, followed by gunfire. This resulted in a gunfight between security personnel on the train and the terrorists.

According to Levies authorities, the shooting incident occurred in the Pirakhnari area of Bolan district, Balochistan, which left the train driver injured. The train is now stationary in a tunnel.

Despite the difficult terrain and remote location, security forces quickly reached the site and initiated a clearance operation, securing the area. Most of the hostages are reported to be women and children.

In response to the attack, the provincial government has declared an emergency in hospitals in Sibi and Quetta, and an emergency desk has been set up at the Quetta Railway Station.

Government sources have also warned against misleading and fake propaganda circulating on social media by anti-state accounts, which are spreading confusion through AI-generated videos, old pictures, fake WhatsApp messages, and posters. They have urged the public to rely on credible sources for information.

Both the President and Prime Minister of Pakistan strongly condemned the attack on Jaffar Express. In their statements, they praised the security forces for their effective actions and courage in handling the situation, emphasizing the professionalism of the personnel involved. They expressed confidence in the forces’ ability to defeat the terrorists despite the challenging circumstances.