WATCH: In a swift and decisive action, security forces successfully rescued 104 passengers who were held hostage by Balochistan Liberation Army during the recent attack on the Jaffar Express, security sources confirmed on Tuesday.
The rescued passengers comprise 58 men, 31 women, and 15 children. Security personnel eliminated 16 terrorists during the ongoing operation. Seventeen injured passengers have been transferred to nearby hospitals for immediate medical treatment.
According to eyewitness accounts, the attack unfolded under challenging circumstances. “The attack occurred in a mountainous region where communication is severely restricted due to the lack of mobile service,” Senior Pakistan Railways official Muhammad Kashif told Xinhua. “In the last contact with the train, the driver reported that an explosion hit the railway track, forcing the train to stop. Immediately after, the militants opened heavy fire, injuring the driver and several passengers.”
Security agencies report that militants maintained communication with their handlers abroad using satellite phones. The operation to secure the area continues as security forces pursue smaller groups of attackers now scattered across the rugged terrain.
The incident has drawn widespread condemnation from national leadership. Prime Minister expressed unwavering determination, stating, “Despite the difficult terrain, the morale of the security forces involved in the operation remains high. We will continue this war against terrorism until this menace is completely eradicated from the country.”
Authorities have vowed to ensure justice is served, affirming that the operation will continue until the region is completely secure and all perpetrators are apprehended.