Bolan/Quetta/Islamabad, March 12, 2025: The hostage rescue operation to free passengers of the Jaffar Express in Balochistan’s Bolan district is nearing completion, with security sources confirming that a large number of hostages, including women and children, have been safely evacuated.
On Tuesday, militants blew up a railway track, opened fire, and hijacked the Jaffar Express, which was carrying approximately 400 passengers from Quetta to Peshawar. The attack occurred in a remote, mountainous region near the Afghanistan-Iran border. The attackers, armed with automatic weapons, injured the train’s driver, who later succumbed to his wounds.
Security operation and hostage situation
Security forces launched an immediate clearance operation, exercising extreme caution as suicide bombers were using women and children as human shields at three different locations. Despite these challenges, at least 190 hostages have been freed, and 30 terrorists have been eliminated. The number of passengers who lost their lives is still being determined.
Security sources confirmed that 37 injured individuals were evacuated for medical treatment. Meanwhile, emergency measures were imposed in Sibi and Civil Hospital Quetta, with all medical staff on high alert to treat the injured.
Survivors recount horror
Passengers who survived the ordeal expressed their relief and gratitude to security forces.
Muhammad Bilal, who was traveling with his mother, described the situation as terrifying, stating, “I can’t find the words to describe how we managed to escape.” Another rescued passenger praised the Army and FC personnel for their swift action, saying, “There was gunfire, but by the grace of Allah, we were brought to safety.”
Terrorist links and intelligence findings
Security sources revealed that the militants were communicating with their handlers via satellite phones, with intelligence suggesting connections to a mastermind based in Afghanistan. Following the attack, the Balochistan government imposed emergency measures, mobilizing all relevant institutions.
Impact on railway operations
In response to the attack, train services from Quetta have been suspended for three days. The Bolan Mail and Jaffar Express will remain halted, while a Quetta-Chaman passenger train has also been delayed. A relief train was dispatched to assist affected passengers.
Political leadership condemns the attack
PPP Chairman Bilawal Bhutto Zardari called terrorism the biggest threat to Pakistan, denouncing the targeting of innocent civilians as a cowardly act. Khyber Pakhtunkhwa Chief Minister Ali Amin Gandapur expressed concern for the safety of the passengers and hoped for their safe return. ANP President Aimal Wali Khan demanded strict action against the perpetrators.
Rise in terror attacks in Pakistan
This attack comes amid a surge in militant activity across the country. According to the Pakistan Institute for Conflict and Security Studies (PICSS), Pakistan witnessed a 42% increase in terrorist attacks in January 2025, with 74 incidents reported nationwide. These attacks resulted in 91 deaths and 117 injuries, with Balochistan alone experiencing 24 attacks that claimed 26 lives.
Security forces remain on high alert as the operation against the remaining militants continues, with authorities vowing to eliminate all threats and restore peace in the region.
*This is an ongoing story, and updates will be provided as the situation unfolds.
