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Jaffar Express Hostage Crisis: 190 Freed, 30 Terrorists Killed
Security forces rescue 190 passengers from the Jaffar Express hijacking near Bolan, Balochistan. 30 terrorists neutralized as the operation nears completion. Casualties are being assessed.
ND
by News Desk
2025-03-12
Jaffar Express Hostage Crisis: 190 Freed, 30 Terrorists Killed

Pakistani security forces have successfully rescued 190 passengers after a deadly hijacking of the Jaffar Express in Balochistan’s Bolan district. Officials confirmed that at least 30 terrorists have been neutralized, while operations continue to eliminate the remaining assailants.

The Attack and Hostage Crisis

The unprecedented hostage situation unfolded on Tuesday near the Mashkaf Tunnel, approximately 157 kilometers from Quetta, when armed terrorists targeted the Jaffar Express. Over 400 passengers, including security personnel, were taken hostage. The attackers positioned suicide bombers among civilians, using them as human shields, making the rescue effort extremely delicate.

State media reported that at least 37 injured individuals have been shifted for medical care. While casualties are still being determined, at least 30 people, including security officials and train staff, have reportedly lost their lives.

BLA Claims Responsibility

The Baloch Liberation Army (BLA), a banned militant group, has claimed responsibility for the attack. The group alleged that it had taken hostages but later freed some, including women and children. These claims have not been independently verified.

Government and Security Response

Minister of State for Railways Bilal Azhar Kayani stated that the operation was in its final stages and had been conducted with utmost caution to minimize casualties. Minister of State for Interior Talal Chaudhry indicated that around 70-80 terrorists were involved, operating under foreign influence.

"The terrorists have handlers abroad, and their funding sources raise serious concerns," Chaudhry remarked, pointing fingers at India.

Nationwide Condemnation and Global Reaction

Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif condemned the attack, stating that Pakistan’s resolve for peace remains unshaken. President Asif Ali Zardari, CM Sarfraz Bugti, and international leaders, including officials from the UN, China, the US, and Iran, have denounced the incident.

“We stand in solidarity with Pakistan in this difficult time,” stated the US Embassy in Islamabad.

China also reaffirmed its support in combating terrorism, while the UN called for the immediate release of hostages.

Security Measures and Investigation

Pakistan Railways has suspended train services from Punjab and Sindh to Balochistan. A help desk has been set up at major railway stations to provide information to worried families. Security forces continue their operation around the Mashkaf Tunnel to secure the remaining hostages and eliminate the remaining attackers.

As authorities work to dismantle the network behind the attack, Balochistan CM Sarfraz Bugti vowed decisive action: “No terrorist will be allowed to disrupt Pakistan’s stability.”

This marks a significant moment in Pakistan’s ongoing struggle against militancy, with national and international eyes closely watching the unfolding situation.

 
Tagged:

Terrorism

PakistanSecurity

JaffarExpressAttack

BalochistanCrisis
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