LAHORE (Web Desk): Director General of Inter-Services Public Relations (ISPR), Lt Gen Ahmed Sharif Chaudhry, confirmed that 33 militants were eliminated in a military operation following the Jaffar Express attack in Balochistan’s Bolan district. Tragically, 25 people, including 21 civilians and four FC personnel, were martyred.
Speaking media, Lt Gen Ahmed Sharif stated the terrorists had taken more than 440 passengers hostage, dividing them into three groups. Security forces, including the Army, Air Force, FC, and SSG, conducted an operation, ensuring the safe recovery of all passengers.
The attack took place on March 11 when terrorists bombed the railway track, causing the train to derail in a tunnel. The assailants opened fire, killing the driver and taking control of the train.
The Baloch Liberation Army (BLA), a separatist militant group, claimed responsibility and demanded the release of Baloch political prisoners and missing persons.
Security forces launched a counter-operation despite difficult mountainous terrain and communication challenges. Special forces and helicopters were deployed to neutralize the attackers while prioritizing civilian safety. Lt Gen Ahmed Sharif emphasized that the terrorists had no connection to Islam or Balochistan and were acting on foreign directives.
The ISPR DG also revealed that Indian media immediately aired old videos to spread misinformation, further exposing external support for these militants.
He criticized certain Pakistani political elements for spreading propaganda and undermining national security.
Following the attack, Pakistan Railways suspended all train services from Quetta and increased security across railway stations nationwide. Emergency help desks were set up at Quetta, Rawalpindi, and Lahore railway stations to assist affected families.
Meanwhile, 57 rescued passengers reached Quetta safely. Authorities pledged to restore rail services after repairing the damaged track while continuing operations against terrorist threats.
