Multiple rockets fired at passenger train; attackers flee after retaliation.
Attack on Jaffar Express Foiled
Security forces successfully repelled a terrorist attack on the Jaffar Express near Notal, Dera Murad Jamali, late Wednesday night. Armed assailants opened fire and launched four rockets at the passenger train, attempting to inflict heavy damage.
According to officials, swift retaliation by security personnel foiled the attack, forcing the militants to flee. Authorities confirmed that several compartments sustained minor damage, but there were no fatalities among passengers.
Swift Action Prevents Major Tragedy
The train was temporarily halted at the Dera Murad Jamali Railway Station following the incident. A large-scale search operation was immediately launched by law enforcement agencies to track down the attackers.
Railway officials stated that the situation was brought under control, and security along the railway track has been further strengthened to prevent similar incidents.
Authorities praised the quick response of the onboard security team, which they said averted a potential disaster and ensured the safety of hundreds of passengers.
Repeated Targeting Raises Alarm
The Jaffar Express has been targeted several times in the past. Earlier this year, the train was hijacked in the Bolan Valley, and in September last year, it came under attack near Quetta Railway Station.
Officials expressed concern over these repeated assaults on passenger trains, stressing the need for enhanced security protocols and better coordination among railway and security departments.
Separate Grenade Attack Injures 13
In a separate incident on the same night, at least 13 people, including two police constables, women, and children, were injured in a hand grenade attack targeting a police van in Dera Murad Jamali.
According to Senior Superintendent of Police (SSP) Ghulam Sarwar Bhayo, unidentified assailants hurled a grenade at a police vehicle on routine patrol near Shah Petrol Pump. The explosion caused widespread panic in the area.
A heavy police contingent rushed to the site, cordoning off the area and launching a search for the perpetrators. The injured were shifted to a nearby hospital, where medical teams provided emergency treatment.
Security Heightened Across the Region
Authorities have placed law enforcement on high alert following the twin attacks. Additional security measures have been deployed along railway lines, public areas, and police patrol zones in Dera Murad Jamali and surrounding regions.
Officials reaffirmed their commitment to protecting citizens and public transport systems from terrorist threats, calling the recent attacks an attempt to destabilize peace in Balochistan.