Terrorists Attack Jaffar Express in Bolan Pass, Hostage Situation Reported
Quetta, The Gulf Observer: Terrorists launched a violent attack on the Jaffar Express, a passenger train traveling from Quetta to Peshawar, in the Bolan Pass area on Tuesday, targeting innocent civilians, security sources reported.
According to officials, the assailants halted the train inside a tunnel and took passengers hostage. Despite the challenging terrain and remote location, security forces swiftly cordoned off the area and initiated a clearance operation to neutralize the attackers and ensure passenger safety.
Security sources confirmed that a significant number of hostages were innocent civilians, including women and children. Reports also indicated that the perpetrators were in contact with their facilitators abroad. Officials emphasized that the operation would continue until all terrorists were eliminated.
“Targeting innocent passengers proves that these terrorists have no affiliation with Islam, Pakistan, or Balochistan,” security sources stated.
Casualties and Security Measures
Earlier reports indicated that the train came under heavy fire between Gudalur and Peru Kanri. The train driver sustained serious injuries, while several passengers were also wounded.
Railway officials confirmed that the train was carrying approximately 450 passengers in its nine coaches at the time of the attack, raising serious concerns over their safety. Communication with both the passengers and the train crew has reportedly been lost.
Following the attack, law enforcement and railway officials confirmed that security forces were immediately deployed to the site. A search operation was launched in the surrounding area to locate the assailants and regain control of the situation.
Hostage Situation and Emergency Response
Levies officials reported that armed assailants targeted the Jaffar Express near Tunnel No. 8 at Peru Kanri, on the border of Sibi and Bolan. Unconfirmed reports suggest that the attackers may have seized control of the train, escalating fears of a hostage crisis.
Emergency measures have been implemented at Civil Hospital Sibi and Dhadar to provide urgent medical assistance to the injured. Authorities are currently verifying reports regarding the possible hijacking of the train, while a large-scale security operation is underway to secure the train and ensure the safety of passengers.
Government Response and Investigation
Balochistan government spokesperson Shahid Rind confirmed that the attack occurred in a remote, mountainous area, complicating access for security and rescue teams. “An emergency has been imposed in Sibi Hospital, and ambulances have been dispatched to assist the injured,” Rind stated.
The Railways Department has dispatched a relief train to the site, while security forces are on their way to assess the situation and ensure passenger safety. Authorities are investigating the nature of the attack, with initial reports pointing toward an act of terrorism.
“The government has directed emergency measures, and all institutions are mobilized,” Rind added, urging the public to remain calm and refrain from spreading unverified information.
The situation remains fluid as security forces continue their operation in the Bolan Pass area.
