In a decisive counterterrorism operation, Pakistani security forces successfully neutralized 33 terrorists, including suicide bombers, while rescuing hostages held captive in the Jaffar Express attack.
According to the Inter-Services Public Relations (ISPR), the militants tragically executed 21 hostages before the security operation commenced. During the mission, four soldiers embraced martyrdom while safeguarding civilians.
Train Attack and Hostage Situation
On March 11, 2025, heavily armed assailants attacked the Jaffar Express en route from Quetta to Peshawar, detonating an explosive device on the railway track near Sibi. The attackers then seized control of the train, taking passengers—including women, children, and the elderly—as hostages and using them as human shields.
Security forces responded swiftly, displaying exceptional bravery and tactical precision. Engaging the militants in an intense and prolonged standoff, they managed to eliminate all 33 terrorists in a phased operation, ensuring the safe rescue of the hostages.
Despite their efforts, the terrorists had already taken the lives of 21 innocent captives before the operation could begin. Four soldiers also lost their lives in the line of duty, sacrificing themselves to prevent further casualties.
Ongoing Efforts and Investigation
Following the rescue mission, security forces launched a thorough sanitization operation in the area to identify and apprehend any facilitators involved in the attack. Authorities have vowed to bring all accomplices to justice.
Intelligence reports indicate that the attack was orchestrated by terrorist leaders operating from Afghanistan, who were in direct communication with the assailants throughout the incident. Pakistan has urged the Afghan interim government to prevent its soil from being used for terror activities against its neighbor.
Nation Pays Tribute to Armed Forces
Survivors of the Jaffar Express attack expressed profound gratitude to the Pakistan Army and Frontier Corps for their heroic efforts in ensuring their safety. They recalled how security personnel provided them with care, food, and protection amidst the chaos. According to officials, approximately 346 hostages were freed in the operation.
Government’s Strong Response
Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif condemned the attack, emphasizing that such cowardly acts would not deter Pakistan’s unwavering commitment to peace. In a statement on social media, he expressed deep sorrow over the tragic loss of innocent lives and extended his condolences to the bereaved families. He prayed for the highest ranks in paradise for the martyrs and wished a speedy recovery for the injured.
Sharif asserted that Pakistan’s resolve remains unshaken, reaffirming that those responsible for the attack had been eliminated.
Balochistan CM Calls for Decisive Action
Balochistan Chief Minister Mir Sarfraz Bugti reiterated the government’s commitment to eradicating terrorism. Addressing a high-level security meeting at the Chief Minister’s Secretariat, he condemned the attack, calling it an intolerable act of violence.
Bugti stressed that the state would not allow terrorists to destabilize the country and vowed a full-scale counterterrorism operation. He directed security agencies to take strict action against those responsible and assured them of complete government support.
“No terrorist will be allowed to control even an inch of our land,” he declared. “Pakistan’s enemies will never succeed in their nefarious designs.”
Bugti assured that those behind the attack would be swiftly brought to justice and instructed security agencies to strengthen measures to prevent future incidents.
Security Measures Intensified
The meeting, attended by senior officials including Chief Secretary of Balochistan Shakeel Qadir Khan, Inspector General of Police Moazzam Jah Ansari, and other key stakeholders, focused on improving counterterrorism strategies. Participants discussed tightening security protocols across the province and enhancing intelligence-sharing to prevent future threats.
With the government and armed forces united in their mission, Pakistan remains steadfast in its determination to eliminate terrorism and safeguard its citizens.
