Quetta: Security sources reported on Wednesday morning that 190 hostages have been rescued following a militant attack on the Jaffar Express on Tuesday afternoon. The train was carrying more than 400 passengers when it was ambushed.
Minister of State for Interior Affairs, Talal Chaudhry, stated on Tuesday night that the attackers abducted several passengers and took them into the mountains. Security forces have launched a clearance operation, claiming to have killed 30 militants so far. Meanwhile, the Baloch Liberation Army (BLA), which has claimed responsibility for the attack, asserts that they have also inflicted casualties on security personnel.
According to security officials, the suicide bombers are reportedly among the attackers holding hostages.
Following the attack, former Chief Minister of Balochistan, Akhtar Mengal, expressed his concerns on social media platform X, stating that "there is no longer any area in Balochistan where the government can claim control." He criticized successive governments for failing to address the situation, blaming them for continued bloodshed and looting in the province.
Mengal further accused the federal government, political parties, judiciary, and the establishment of jointly being responsible for what he called "Baloch genocide." He warned that the situation is now beyond control for all parties involved.
Meanwhile, relatives of the hostages gathered at railway stations overnight, hoping for updates on their missing family members. One distressed family member stated, "It has been 24 hours, and we have received no news. We heard that some hostages were released, but even they have not provided any information."
Criticism is also mounting over why the train was allowed to operate despite potential security threats. Some passengers questioned why military personnel were on board if such a risk existed.
Additionally, Railway officials in Quetta confirmed that at least 200 empty coffins have been sent to Bolan via a relief train, though only 10 casualties, including 8 security personnel and train driver are confirmed till now.
Pakistan Railways announced that train operations in Quetta have been temporarily suspended until security clearance is received. A help desk has been set up at Rawalpindi Railway Station to provide information about the incident. Passengers' families can also reach out to emergency contacts at Quetta Railway Station for updates.
For information, Pakistan Railways has provided the following contact numbers: 0819201210, 0819201211, and 117.
[The story is updated after fresh updates received]
