QUETTA:
Gunmen attacked the Jaffar Express near Notal in Dera Murad Jamali late on Wednesday night, firing several shots and firing four rockets at the passenger train. Security forces responded quickly, thwarting the attack and forcing the assailants to flee.
According to initial reports, a few train compartments suffered minor damage, but no loss of life was reported. Officials said the quick response of security personnel prevented a major tragedy, ensuring the safety of all passengers.
After the attack, the train was stopped at Dera Murad Jamali Railway Station and a large-scale search operation was launched by law enforcement agencies to trace the attackers. The railway authorities confirmed that the situation had been brought under control and security was tightened along the track.
It can be mentioned here that it 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 last September it was also targeted near Quetta Railway Station.
Authorities have expressed concern over the repeated targeting of the train and said additional security measures are being put in place to ensure the safety of passengers and rail operations.
Grenade attack
At least 13 people, including two policemen, were injured in a hand grenade attack on a police van in Dera Murad Jamali on Wednesday.
According to Senior Superintendent of Police (SSP) Ghulam Sarwar Bhayo, unidentified assailants hurled a hand grenade at a police vehicle on routine patrol near Shah Petrol Pump. The explosion left 13 people injured, including police officers, women and children.
After the explosion, a large police force arrived at the scene and cordoned off the area. The injured were shifted to a nearby hospital for medical treatment.
