Security forces rescue 104 hostages, kill 14 militants in a high-stakes operation in Balochistan
A horrifying train hijacking in Balochistan’s Bolan district turned into a bloody standoff as security forces launched a fierce operation against militants who seized the Jaffar Express. The train, carrying over 400 passengers, was en route from Quetta to Peshawar when an unknown number of terrorists took hostages, triggering an urgent military response.
By the end of the intense firefight, security forces successfully freed 104 hostages and killed at least 14 terrorists. Officials have vowed to continue the operation until every last militant is eliminated.
Security sources confirmed that the militants bombed the railway track before storming the train, opening fire on the locomotive and injuring the driver. The attack unfolded near a remote, mountainous area close to the Afghanistan-Iran border, making the rescue operation even more challenging.
The terrorists, allegedly communicating via satellite phones with handlers in Afghanistan, split into smaller groups as security forces closed in. Reports suggest they used women and children as human shields, forcing troops to exercise extreme caution.
Emergency measures have been enforced across Balochistan, with hospitals in Quetta and Sibi placed on high alert. Dozens of passengers injured in the assault have been transported for urgent medical treatment. Meanwhile, a special relief train and security reinforcements have been dispatched to secure the area and prevent further attacks.
Pakistan’s top leaders have strongly condemned the attack. President Asif Ali Zardari labelled it an “inhuman act”, stressing that no religion or society condones such atrocities. Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif praised the bravery of the security forces, vowing that the fight against terrorism will continue until every militant is wiped out.
Interior Minister Mohsin Naqvi and PPP Chairman Bilawal Bhutto Zardari echoed similar sentiments, denouncing the terrorists as “beasts unworthy of mercy.” They urged for swift and ruthless action against those responsible for the carnage.
The attack comes amid a surge in terrorist activity across Pakistan. January alone saw 74 militant attacks, claiming 91 lives—a staggering 42% increase from the previous month. Balochistan remains a hotspot, suffering 24 attacks in the same period, with both civilians and security personnel among the casualties.
As night falls, security forces remain locked in battle, determined to hunt down every last terrorist and prevent another catastrophe on Pakistan’s railway lines
