QUETTA:
Gunmen attacked the Jaffar Express near Notal in Dera Murad Jamali on Wednesday evening, firing several shots and launching four rockets at the passenger train. Security forces quickly responded, foiling the attack and forcing the attackers to flee.
According to initial reports, a few compartments of the train suffered minor damage, but no human casualties were reported. Officials said the quick response of security personnel helped avert a major tragedy, ensuring the safety of all passengers.
Following the attack, the train was stopped at Dera Murad Jamali station and a large-scale search operation was launched by law enforcement agencies to trace the attackers. Railway authorities confirmed that the situation had been brought under control and security had been increased along the track.
It is worth mentioning here that this is not the first time that the Jaffar Express has been attacked. Earlier this year, the passenger train was hijacked in the mountainous Bolan Valley, while in September last year it was also targeted near Quetta railway station.
Authorities expressed concern over repeated attacks on the train and said additional security measures were being put in place to ensure the safety of passengers and train operations.
Grenade attack
At least 13 people, including two police officers, were injured in a grenade attack on a police van in Dera Murad Jamali on Wednesday.
According to Senior Superintendent of Police (SSP) Ghulam Sarwar Bhayo, unidentified assailants threw a hand grenade at a police vehicle during a routine patrol near Shah Petrol Pump. The explosion injured 13 people, including police officers, women and children.
Following the explosion, a large contingent of police arrived at the scene and cordoned off the area. The injured were transferred to a nearby hospital for medical treatment.
