Jafar Express: The Jafar Express was attacked shortly after it began its journey from Quetta. Terrorists surrounded the train near Tunnel Number 8 and then tried to establish contact with the passengers.
On Tuesday, a passenger train was hijacked in Pakistan’s Balochistan province, with nearly 500 people on board. The Balochistan Liberation Army (BLA) claimed responsibility for the attack. The group claimed that it had taken 214 passengers hostage and killed 30 Pakistani soldiers. They also threatened that if the security forces did not withdraw, they would kill all the hostages.
By late Tuesday night, Pakistani security forces had managed to rescue around 80 passengers from the train. The terrorists have demanded the unconditional release of Baloch political prisoners and national resistance activists. In exchange, they are willing to release the hostages and have set a 48-hour deadline for this.
According to local media reports, security forces have killed 13 terrorists in a counterattack. The Jafar Express, after starting its journey from Quetta, was attacked. The terrorists surrounded the train near Tunnel Number 8, and attempts were made to contact the passengers. The terrorists claimed they had taken control of the train after derailing it at a remote location. However, neither Baloch authorities nor the railway have confirmed the situation regarding casualties or the hostages.
Heavy Military Operation Ongoing
Security forces have launched a massive operation to encircle the terrorists. Heavy gunfire and airstrikes are ongoing. The terrorist group claims that they have completely thwarted the army’s ground operations and forced the army to retreat. BLA leaders said, “We have fully taken control of the Jafar Express and ended the army’s ground operations. However, bombings from Pakistani helicopters and drones are still continuing.”
Rescue Efforts Continue
According to railway officials, 450 passengers and crew members are still out of contact, and several passengers have been reported injured in the attack. The Pakistani army has sent a rescue train, which includes teams of soldiers and doctors. Ambulances have also been dispatched, but the relief efforts are being hindered by the mountainous and rugged terrain.
Warning from the Baloch Movement
The Baloch Liberation Army has warned that if Pakistani security forces initiate any military operation, the consequences will be severe. They stated that all hostages will be killed, and the Pakistani army will be held solely responsible.
Pakistan Government’s Response
Pakistan’s Interior Minister, Mohsin Naqvi, strongly condemned the attack and said that the government would not make any compromises with “animals” who fire on innocent passengers. The Balochistan government has implemented emergency measures and activated all institutions to address the situation.
