Tag: pakistannewsupdate

  • Jaffar Express Train Attack: A Tragic Event in Balochistan

    Jaffar Express Train Attack: A Tragic Event in Balochistan

    The recent Jaffar Express train attack in Balochistan has once again shown the serious security issues in Pakistan. The attack, carried out by the Balochistan Liberation Army (BLA), caused one death (Train Driver) and injuries to many others. It also led to a hostage situation, forcing security forces to take action.

    What Happened in the Attack?

    On March 11, 2025, the Jaffar Express, traveling from Quetta to Peshawar, was attacked by BLA terrorists in Mashkaf, Dhadar, Bolan, Balochistan. The attackers blew up the tracks, stopping the train by derailing it between Tunnel 7 and Tunnel 8 in Dhadar, a remote and mountainous area with no roads nearby. The nearest road to this location is 25-30 Kilometers away.

    During the attack, Train Driver Rana Amjad Yaseen was badly injured and later passed away. The terrorists took control of the whole train consisting of 9 bogies, holding about 450 passengers hostage, including women and children.

    Who is Behind the Attack?

    The Balochistan Liberation Army (BLA) is a militant separatist terrorist group that has carried out multiple attacks in Pakistan, demanding independence for Balochistan. The group has been designated as a terrorist organization by Pakistan, the UK, and the US. In recent years, the BLA has targeted security forces, infrastructure, and Chinese investments in the region.

    Security officials reported that the attackers were in direct contact with their leaders in Afghanistan, receiving real-time instructions during the attack. The media wing of the BLA terrorist group also released a press release about this incident.

    Jaffar express train attack BLA terrorist press release

    Hostage Situation and Terrorist Plan

    After taking control of the train, the terrorists split into groups and spread across mountains, tunnels, and nearby areas. They used passengers as human shields to prevent security forces from attacking. Reports also confirmed that there were suicide bombers among the hostages, making the rescue mission even more dangerous.

    Security Forces’ Response and Rescue Operation

    Despite many challenges, Pakistan’s security forces started a careful rescue operation to defeat the terrorists and save the hostages.

    • Hostages Rescued: A total of 346 passengers have been rescued so far.
    • Progress So Far: 50 terrorists have been killed, and security forces are moving closer to full control of the area.
    • Safe Transfer: 57 out of the 346 rescued passengers were taken to Quetta on 4 vehicles under high security, where their families were waiting. 37 injured were taken to hospital for treatments.
    • Women & Children Rescued: Among the freed passengers, 31 were women and 15 were children.
    • Mission Continues: Officials have said the operation will continue until all terrorists are eliminated.

    Effect on Train Services

    Because of the attack, Jaffar Express services have been stopped for three days. Also, Bolan Express services from Quetta to Karachi have been put on hold. Authorities have stated that train services will resume only after strict security measures are put in place to prevent future attacks.

    National Reaction and Condemnation

    The Balochistan train attack has been strongly condemned by Pakistan’s President, Prime Minister, and Interior Minister. Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif stated, “The government will take strict action against those responsible and ensure the safety of all citizens.” The military leadership also emphasized a strong response against terrorist networks operating in the region.

    Recent Terrorist Attacks in Balochistan

    The Balochistan BLA attack on the Jaffar Express train is the latest in a series of violent incidents. In the past few months:

    • A suicide bombing at Quetta Railway Station killed 32 people and injured 62.
    • A police convoy in Turbat was attacked, leading to several deaths.
    • A series of bomb blasts targeted security checkpoints in Balochistan.

    These attacks show that terrorist groups in Balochistan remain a serious threat, and stronger security efforts are needed.

    Conclusion: A Call for Vigilance and Stronger Security

    The Jaffar Express train attack is a painful reminder of the dangers faced by Pakistan’s security forces and civilians. While the rescue mission has seen a success so far, the Balochistan terrorist attack highlights the ongoing security problems in the region. With continued efforts from security forces and the government, Pakistan remains committed to protecting its people and fighting against terrorism.

    The country stands with the victims and their families, honoring the bravery of those who lost their lives and the efforts of those working to bring peace to Balochistan.

  • Nowshera Bomb Blast: Maulana Hamid ul Haq Martyred in Targeted Attack

    Introduction

    A devastating suicide bombing struck the Dar ul Uloom Haqqania seminary in Akora Khattak, Nowshera, during Friday prayers on March 1, 2025, just days before the start of Ramadan. Daesh (ISIS) likely did this targeted attack, killing Maulana Hamid ul Haq, the son of Maulana Sami ul Haq, a former influential religious leader whom they assassinated a few years ago. The blast has shocked the nation, drawing condemnation from Pakistan’s President, Prime Minister, and religious scholars.

    Nowshera Bomb Blast

    Details of the Nowshera Bomb Blast

    The Nowshera blast happened inside Dar ul Uloom Haqqania, one of the most prestigious Islamic seminaries in Pakistan.

    • Timing: The attack took place during Friday prayers, a moment when mosques and seminaries were filled with worshippers.
    • Casualties: The blast resulted in the death of Maulana Hamid ul Haq along with five others, while around 20 people sustained injuries.
    • Nature of Attack: According to security reports, a suicide bomber detonated explosives inside the seminary, targeting the main prayer area.
    • Investigation: Authorities suspect Daesh’s involvement, considering their past attacks on prominent religious figures in Pakistan.
    • Confirmation: IG Police KPK has officially confirmed this incident

    Why Was Maulana Hamid ul Haq Targeted?

    Maulana Hamid ul Haq was a prominent religious and political figure, holding multiple key positions:

    • Head of Dar ul Uloom Haqqania, Akora Khattak, Nowshera
    • Former Senator (2002-2007)
    • Head of Pakistan’s Negotiation Committee with Afghanistan

    Political and Religious Stance

    Recently, Maulana Hamid ul Haq attended the Islamic Conference in Islamabad, where he strongly opposed the ban on female education, advocating for women’s right to education. Following his speech, he reportedly began receiving life threats.

    Additionally, he was leading Pakistan’s negotiation committee with the Afghan government, a sensitive role that could have made him a target.

    Possible Involvement of TTP or ISKP in the Attack

    Recent investigations suggest that Tehrik-i-Taliban Pakistan (TTP) or Islamic State Khorasan Province (ISKP) could be behind this deadly attack. Maulana Sami ul Haq, the father of Maulana Hamid ul Haq, played a key role in improving ties between Pakistan and the Afghan Taliban government. His efforts aimed at creating peace between the two nations, which may have made him a target for groups that oppose stability in the region. The latest attack on his son, Maulana Hamid ul Haq, seems to follow the same pattern, raising concerns that these extremist groups are working to prevent any diplomatic progress between Pakistan and Afghanistan.

    Background of Maulana Hamid ul Haq & His Father Maulana Sami ul Haq

    Maulana Hamid ul Haq (1960-2025)

    • Born in 1960, Maulana Hamid ul Haq was a key figure in religious and political circles.
    • Led Dar ul Uloom Haqqania, an influential Islamic seminary producing scholars and leaders.
    • Served as a Senator of Pakistan (2002-2007).
    • Advocated for women’s education and was vocal about political and religious issues.
    • Appointed as the head of the KPK government’s negotiation team with Afghanistan.

    Maulana Sami ul Haq (1937-2018)

    • Born in 1937, Maulana Sami ul Haq was a renowned religious scholar and politician.
    • He was often referred to as the “Father of the Taliban”, as many Afghan Taliban leaders studied at his seminary.
    • Assassinated in 2018 in a targeted attack, which remains unsolved but was linked to Daesh elements.

    Government & National Reaction

    • President and Prime Minister of Pakistan strongly condemned the attack, calling it a terrorist act against Islam and Pakistan.
    • IG Police KPK confirmed that investigations are underway to track down those responsible.
    • Religious leaders and scholars expressed outrage, calling for increased security for religious figures.

    Connection to the Muslim Nations Summit (January 2025)

    The attack comes shortly after the Muslim Nations Summit in January 2025, where global Muslim leaders gathered to discuss critical issues. Maulana Hamid ul Haq’s stance on female education and Afghan negotiations may have made him a target.

    Conclusion

    The Nowshera bomb blast has once again highlighted the security risks faced by religious and political leaders in Pakistan. The assassination of Maulana Hamid ul Haq, much like his father’s murder, raises questions about the resurgence of terrorist networks in the region.

    As investigations continue, the government faces mounting pressure to increase security measures, particularly ahead of Ramadan, to protect scholars and religious institutions. Officials urge citizens to follow updates, stay vigilant, and avoid spreading misinformation.