Monitoring Desk
In a high-stakes operation, security forces successfully rescued 104 hostages and eliminated 16 terrorists following a brazen attack on the Jaffar Express in Balochistan’s Bolan region. The train, carrying over 400 passengers in nine carriages, was ambushed while traveling from Quetta to Peshawar.
According to security sources, the rescued passengers include 58 men, 31 women, and 15 children. Operations are still ongoing to ensure the safety of any remaining hostages, as security forces tighten their grip on the remaining militants.
The assailants bombed the railway track before storming the train, opening fire and injuring the locomotive driver. Security personnel swiftly surrounded the train, engaging in an intense exchange of gunfire. As the operation unfolded, the attackers split into small groups, reportedly using women and children as human shields, complicating security efforts.
Sources revealed that the terrorists were in contact with their handler in Afghanistan, raising concerns about cross-border militant coordination. The rugged terrain of the region has further challenged security forces in their efforts to neutralize the threat.
Following the operation, 57 of the rescued passengers were transported to Quetta under strict security. They first traveled on a cargo train to Mach railway station before being escorted to Quetta, where emotional reunions took place with waiting family members.
In response to the attack, the Balochistan government declared an emergency at Sibbi Hospital and Quetta’s Civil Hospital to provide immediate medical care to the injured passengers. Ambulances were swiftly dispatched to the scene to assist victims.
Balochistan government spokesperson Shahid Rind stated that authorities are thoroughly assessing the attack, with strong indications of a terrorist plot. Mobile services in the area remain suspended as security forces continue clearance operations.
This deadly attack underscores the persistent security threats in Balochistan, with officials vowing to intensify counterterrorism efforts to prevent future incidents.
