MACHH – Security forces killed at least 16 attackers and rescued 104 civilians during a clearance operation in Balochistan’s Bolan region after terrorists hijacked the Jaffar Express.
The Jaffar Express, carrying over 400 passengers in nine carriages, was traveling from Quetta to Peshawar when it was ambushed. Security sources confirmed that among the rescued passengers are 53 men, 26 women, and 11 children.
Efforts are ongoing to free the remaining hostages, with forces tightening the cordon around the militants.
Following the security forces’ operation, the attackers split into small groups. Injured passengers were swiftly transported to a nearby hospital for urgent medical care.
As the attack unfolded, security personnel quickly surrounded the train, leading to a heavy exchange of gunfire.
Sources revealed that the terrorists are in contact with their handler in Afghanistan and are using women and children as human shields, making the operation more delicate.
Due to the presence of civilians, security forces are proceeding with extreme caution. Additionally, the rugged terrain of the area has further complicated the operation.
According to security officials, the assailants bombed the railway track before boarding the train and opened fire on the locomotive, injuring the train driver
According to sources, the train departed Quetta at 9:30am and came under attack while passing through Pehro Kunri area in Bolan region.
Security forces cordoned off the area, which falls within the mountainous terrain near Machh. Mobile services in the area are unavailable.
The Balochistan government spokesperson said the nature of the attack was being assessed, with the possibility of a terrorist incident not being ruled out.
Emergency has been declared at Sibbi Hospital, and ambulances have been dispatched to the scene.
BLA Issues Warning, Claims Military Casualties
In a statement released to the media, the BLA claimed responsibility for the hijacking, alleging that six security personnel onboard had been killed. The group, which has been waging a decades-long insurgency for an independent Balochistan, warned that any rescue attempt would be met with deadly retaliation.
“The Balochistan Liberation Army warns of severe consequences if an operation is launched against us,” the group stated, adding that its fighters had “successfully seized the train” as part of their ongoing struggle against Pakistani authorities.
Security Forces Mobilized as Emergency Declared
In response to the crisis, Pakistani security forces have cordoned off the area and launched a clearance operation. However, the difficult mountainous terrain provides a strategic advantage to the attackers. An emergency has been declared at hospitals in Sibi, and a relief train has been dispatched to the site to provide assistance.
Balochistan government spokesperson Shahid Rind acknowledged the severity of the situation, stating, “Rescue efforts are ongoing, but the safety of hostages is our top priority. We are taking every necessary measure to resolve the crisis.”
