Pakistan PM Shehbaz Sharif Visits Balochistan After Deadly Jaffar Express Hijacking

Pakistan Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif arrived in Quetta on Thursday for a day-long visit to Balochistan, days after a devastating terrorist attack on the Jaffar Express claimed 21 civilian and four Frontier Corps (FC) lives.

The hijacking, executed by the Balochistan Liberation Army (BLA), has reignited concerns over security in the restive province. Sharif was welcomed by Balochistan Chief Minister Mir Sarfaraz Bugti, according to Radio Pakistan, signaling a unified governmental response to the crisis.

The Prime Minister’s visit centers on a high-level meeting in Quetta to review the law and order situation following the attack. The Jaffar Express, en route from Quetta to Peshawar with over 400 passengers, was derailed by explosives near Gudalar and Piru Kunri on Tuesday. Militants opened fire and took hostages, triggering a fierce two-day military operation.

Security forces, including the Pakistan Air Force, Special Services Group, Army, and FC, neutralized all 33 attackers by Wednesday, rescuing over 300 passengers. The BLA, demanding the release of political prisoners, claimed additional hostage executions during the standoff, though official confirmation is pending.

Beyond the security review, Sharif will address political leaders and tribal elders, aiming to rally support and address local grievances fueling unrest. Balochistan’s instability, rooted in poverty, underdevelopment, and disputes over resource control, has long empowered separatist groups like the BLA.

During his visit, Sharif met survivors and praised the commandos’ bravery, reiterating his resolve on social media: “Pakistan will not bow to terrorism.”

The visit highlights the government’s immediate focus on countering militancy while facing pressure to tackle the province’s deeper socio-economic challenges. With Chief Minister Bugti by his side, Sharif’s engagements signal a push for both security and dialogue in a region scarred by violence.