Quetta (Web Desk): The security forces successfully rescued over 80 hostages, including women and children, after a group of unidentified terrorists took control of the Jaffar Express in the Bolan region of Balochistan.
According to security sources, at least 13 terrorists have been killed by the security forces while operation is underway against the militants.
the train, which was carrying more than 400 passengers, was traveling from Quetta to Peshawar when it came under attack in the remote area.
Among the hostages freed included 58 men, 31 women, and 15 children, with efforts still ongoing to secure the release of the remaining captives.
The rescued passenger have been shifted to Mach Railway station.
The security forces with extended contingents have cordoned off the area and are tightening the noose around the attackers.
Following the initial assault, there was a heavy exchange of gunfire as security teams moved in to surround the train.
As per the sources, the assailants are in contact with their commander in Afghanistan and are using innocent passengers, particularly women and children, as human shields to deter the advancing forces.
They added that the presence of civilians on board has complicated the operation, with authorities taking great care to avoid unnecessary harm.
Additionally, the challenging mountainous terrain of the region has added further complexity to the operation.
The terrorists reportedly bombed the railway tracks before boarding the train, opening fire on the locomotive and injuring the driver.
The train was halted just before entering a tunnel, and the attackers seized control of the train in this remote area, which is situated near both Afghanistan and Iran.
Despite these obstacles, security forces managed to reach the site in Mushqaf, a town in Bolan, where they began their operation.
In response to the situation, the Balochistan government has implemented emergency protocols, mobilizing all necessary resources to address the crisis.
A relief train and additional security personnel were dispatched to the location, while the provincial government has declared an emergency in Sibi and Civil Hospital Quetta.
The health department has called in all medical staff, and several wards at the hospital were cleared to handle potential casualties.
An emergency information desk has been set up at the Quetta Railway Station, where a railway official has been appointed to provide updates on the situation.
As security forces continue their mission, the tension remains high, with hopes that the remaining hostages will soon be freed without further escalation.
* This is a developing story that is being updated as the situation evolves.