Pakistani security forces have rescued 155 passengers and eliminated 27 terrorists during a high-stakes operation following an attack on the Jaffar Express train in Balochistan province. The incident, which occurred Tuesday in the remote Kacchi district, saw militants storm the train carrying 450 passengers, using hostages as human shields amidst difficult mountainous terrain.
Security sources confirmed the operation remains ongoing, with terrorists reportedly wearing explosive vests and coordinating with facilitators in Afghanistan. 'The noose around the terrorists has been tightened,' officials stated, emphasizing their commitment to continuing operations until all threats are neutralized.
Communication challenges compounded the crisis, as Senior Pakistan Railways official Muhammad Kashif explained: 'The driver reported an explosion damaging tracks before militants opened fire, injuring multiple people.' Emergency response teams established medical facilities in Sibi and Quetta, while a relief train delivered security reinforcements to the area.
Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif vowed to continue Pakistan's counter-terrorism efforts, stating: 'We will never allow anti-state elements to succeed.' The banned Balochistan Liberation Army (BLA) claimed responsibility for the attack via social media.
As night fell Wednesday, authorities maintained heightened security protocols across Balochistan, with 57 rescued passengers already transferred to Quetta and 23 others receiving care in Mach town. The provincial government's emergency declaration remains in effect as security forces work to resolve one of Pakistan's most complex hostage situations in recent years.
