Jaffar Express hijacking: Pakistan Army outwits major terrorist attack

Islamabad : A joint operation by Pakistan’s security forces successfully rescued all passengers of the Jaffar Express after a deadly hijacking attempt by the Balochistan Liberation Army (BLA) on March 11. The attack, reportedly orchestrated with external support from India's RAW and elements within the Afghan government, was neutralized in a swift military response.

This successful operation demonstrates the Pakistan Army's ability to respond effectively to terrorist attacks and ensure the safety of civilians. This incident is part of a broader pattern of cross-border terrorism aimed at disrupting Pakistan's security and infrastructure. The BLA, a separatist militant organization, has been involved in several attacks against Pakistani security forces and civilians, often operating with external support. RAW has long been accused of backing such groups to fuel unrest in Balochistan. Similarly, the Taliban's involvement in this attack raises concerns about lingering extremist networks operating along the Pakistan-Afghanistan border.

Pakistan has repeatedly raised concerns about Indian-sponsored terrorism at international forums, citing evidence of RAW's role in fomenting insurgency and violence within its borders. The attack on Jaffar Express is yet another reminder of the persistent threats posed by externally backed militant groups operating with impunity in the region. Security agencies are intensifying counterterrorism operations to dismantle these networks and ensure the safety of Pakistani citizens.

The Balochistan Liberation Army (BLA) has been active in insurgency efforts against Pakistan's government since the early 2000s, citing grievances over resource exploitation and alleged human rights violations. However, its growing reliance on external support raises concerns about foreign involvement in regional destabilization. The group seeks independence for Balochistan, which has been a long-standing conflict since 1948.

The Balochistan Liberation Army (BLA) has been involved in multiple attacks targeting railway infrastructure in Quetta and other parts of Balochistan. Recently, they claimed responsibility for a series of attacks, including the destruction of a key railway bridge between Kolpur and Mach, which disrupted train services in the province.

The Jaffar Express hijacking was a violent terrorist attack carried out by the BLA on March 11, 2025. The Pakistan Armed Forces launched a successful military operation within 24 hours, rescuing 346 hostages and eliminating all insurgents involved.

The Jaffar Express, a passenger train traveling from Quetta to Peshawar, was hijacked by BLA militants while passing through Bolan district, Balochistan. The attackers detonated explosives on train tracks and in tunnels, then opened fire on passengers. They later issued a 48-hour ultimatum, demanding the release of Baloch political prisoners, threatening to execute the hostages otherwise. However, some hostages were released early, while others were reportedly taken into the mountains as human shields

In a 24-hour counterterrorism operation, Pakistan’s military eliminated all 33 insurgents, including suicide bombers, and rescued 346 hostages. The security forces’ precision ensured no suicide bombers could detonate their explosives, preventing mass casualties. At least 64 people, including 18 security personnel and civilians, lost their lives in the attack and ensuing operation.

Security agencies revealed that the attackers maintained direct communication with RAW and Afghan-based elements, who provided logistical and operational support. Indian-manufactured arms and ammunition recovered from the site further indicated RAW’s alleged role in destabilising Pakistan through proxy groups. The Taliban's suspected involvement highlights ongoing security threats along the Pakistan-Afghanistan border.

Pakistan has long accused India of sponsoring terrorism, particularly in Balochistan, to fuel unrest. This attack adds to a series of past incidents, including targeted strikes on railway infrastructure and security forces. Authorities are intensifying counterterrorism measures to dismantle such networks.

The BLA, active since the early 2000s, has claimed responsibility for multiple attacks, including the 2022 Karachi University bombing targeting Chinese nationals and the 2023 assault on Gwadar Port. Their latest operation—the hijacking of a civilian train—marks an escalation in their tactics, directly targeting unarmed passengers.

Pakistan’s military and intelligence agencies have intensified operations to curb separatist violence, including targeted raids, intelligence-driven arrests, and enhanced security for transportation and infrastructure projects. With China investing heavily in Balochistan under the China-Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC), such attacks threaten economic stability and diplomatic ties.

Security analysts suggest that while military operations are crucial, long-term stability in Balochistan requires political and economic reforms to address underlying grievances and prevent militant recruitment.

The successful rescue operation by Pakistan’s armed forces highlights their counterterrorism capabilities and commitment to national security. However, the attack on Jaffar Express serves as a grim reminder of persistent threats from externally-backed militant groups. Pakistan is likely to ramp up counterterrorism efforts, enhance regional

cooperation, and strengthen intelligence networks to prevent future attacks.