As Crisis Deepens, 200 Coffins Arrive in Quetta, Raising Fears of Heavy Casualties
Islamabad [Pakistan], March 13: Pakistan’s Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif has broken his silence over the hijacking of the Jaffar Express, calling it a “dastardly act” and asserting that Pakistan’s resolve for peace remains unshaken despite the tragic loss of innocent lives.
Speaking for the first time since the attack, PM Sharif expressed deep sorrow over the incident and confirmed that he was briefed on the latest developments by Balochistan Chief Minister Sarfaraz Bugti.
“Spoke with Chief Minister Sarfaraz Bugti, who briefed me on the latest developments in the heinous terrorist attack on Jaffar Express. The entire nation is deeply shocked by this dastardly act and saddened by the loss of innocent lives—such cowardly acts will not shake Pakistan’s resolve for peace,” the Prime Minister posted on X (formerly Twitter).
He further offered condolences to the families of the victims and praised the military for eliminating dozens of terrorists.
“I offer my heartfelt condolences to the families of the martyrs. May Allah grant them the highest ranks in Jannah and bless those injured with a swift recovery. Dozens of the terrorists have been sent to hell,” he added.
Crisis Worsens: 200 Coffins Arrive in Quetta Amid Reports of Heavy Casualties
As the Jaffar Express standoff drags on, the situation has taken a deadly turn, with authorities dispatching over 200 coffins to Quetta Railway Station—an ominous sign of expected heavy casualties.
Human rights activist Amjad Ayub Mirza has raised concerns that Pakistan’s army has decided not to negotiate, endangering the lives of military personnel held hostage.
“More than 200 wooden coffins have been brought to Quetta Railway Station. This means the Pakistani army has decided not to negotiate and is prepared for its military personnel to be killed,” Mirza stated grimly.
He further confirmed reports that the bodies of 30-40 military personnel have already arrived in Quetta, with hospitals placed on high alert to treat potential casualties.
Baloch Liberation Army’s Ultimatum: “Prisoner Swap or Executions”
The Baloch Liberation Army (BLA), which hijacked the Jaffar Express on Tuesday, continues to hold over 200 hostages, primarily Pakistani military, paramilitary, and intelligence officials. The group has issued a final 24-hour ultimatum, demanding:
✅ Immediate release of Baloch political prisoners
✅ Freedom for detained resistance fighters
✅ An end to military operations in Balochistan
If their demands are ignored, the BLA has threatened to execute hostages and try them in the Baloch National Court.
“If Pakistan does not take practical steps within the remaining 24 hours, we will present the hostages before the Baloch National Court. The state’s refusal to negotiate proves their disregard for human lives,” the BLA warned.
Pakistan’s Military Response: Counteroffensive in Full Swing
Pakistan’s military launched a high-risk rescue operation, reportedly freeing 190 passengers while killing 30 BLA militants. However, the situation remains volatile, with heavy gunfire exchanges continuing in the Bolan Pass.
The train hijacking has already resulted in the death of the train driver, and at least 37 passengers have been severely injured, according to Voice of America.
What Happens Next? A Race Against Time
With only hours left in the BLA’s final ultimatum, Pakistan must decide its next move—continue military operations and risk mass executions, or engage in negotiations to prevent further loss of life.
As tensions mount and the world watches, Pakistan stands at a critical juncture—one that could define the future of its conflict with Baloch insurgents.
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Jaffar Express Hijack, Baloch Liberation Army, Pakistan hostage crisis, BLA ultimatum, Pakistan military, terrorism in Pakistan, Shehbaz Sharif, Quetta crisis, Balochistan conflict, train hijacking
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