Pakistan’s security forces successfully repelled a deadly suicide attack in South Waziristan, eliminating 10 militants just a day after neutralizing 33 hijackers of the Jaffar Express. With terror attacks surging, the nation faces mounting security challenges.
BY PC Bureau
A day after security forces eliminated all 33 attackers who hijacked the Jaffar Express in Balochistan’s Bolan district, the Pakistan Army successfully repelled another terrorist assault in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa’s South Waziristan district. Security forces killed 10 militants after a suicide bombing near an FC camp, security sources reported.
The attack occurred in Jandola, where a loud explosion was followed by heavy gunfire, according to police officials. Security forces swiftly countered the militant assault on the Jandola checkpost, preventing further escalation. A suicide bomber detonated a vehicle near the FC camp during the attack.
Interior Minister Mohsin Naqvi commended the security forces for their swift response and reiterated the nation’s commitment to eliminating terrorism.
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Jaffar Express Hijacking and Rising Terrorist Activity
This latest attack came just a day after security forces neutralized 33 militants who had hijacked the Jaffar Express train in Balochistan. The attackers, affiliated with the Baloch Liberation Army (BLA), blew up rail tracks and opened fire on the train traveling from Quetta to Peshawar, taking hostages. The attack resulted in the deaths of 21 passengers and four security personnel before forces successfully intervened.
Update 1.1
🇵🇰 Pak Army’s Daring Action in Jandola 10 Khawarij Eliminated!
● Failed Vehicle-Based + Suicide + Physical Attack on Jandola Fort completely crushed!
● 10 Khawarij terrorists were killed on the spot—bodies visible, littered around!
● A bold & coordinated response… https://t.co/4T9RNF2Pm0 pic.twitter.com/4kowr57bm7— Pakistan Strategic Prism (@PakStratprism) March 13, 2025
Pakistan has witnessed a sharp surge in terrorist activity, with attacks increasing by 42% in January 2025 compared to the previous month, according to the Pakistan Institute for Conflict and Security Studies (PICSS). The report documented 74 militant attacks nationwide, causing 91 fatalities—including 35 security personnel, 20 civilians, and 36 militants—and 117 injuries.
Khyber Pakhtunkhwa remains the most affected province, followed by Balochistan.
- KP’s settled districts saw 27 attacks, resulting in 19 fatalities.
- KP’s tribal districts witnessed 19 attacks, leading to 46 deaths.
- Balochistan recorded 24 attacks, with 26 lives lost.
January also saw two suicide bombings in Balochistan, claimed by the banned Tehreek-e-Taliban Pakistan (TTP) and the proscribed Balochistan Liberation Army (BLA).
The escalating wave of violence highlights Pakistan’s growing security challenges, as militant groups continue their offensives despite intensified counterterrorism efforts.
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\\Background on Rising Terrorism in Pakistan
Pakistan is grappling with a renewed wave of terrorism, particularly in Balochistan and Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, where both separatist and Islamist militant groups have escalated their attacks. This surge in violence comes amid political instability, economic turmoil, and a stretched security apparatus struggling to contain threats on multiple fronts.
Balochistan Insurgency
Balochistan, Pakistan’s largest but most sparsely populated province, has long been a battleground for separatist movements. Armed groups like the Baloch Liberation Army (BLA) and Balochistan Liberation Front (BLF) have waged an insurgency, demanding greater autonomy and control over the province’s vast natural resources. These groups accuse the central government of economic exploitation and political marginalization. The recent Jaffar Express hijacking and rising attacks on security forces signal an emboldened insurgency.
Tehreek-e-Taliban Pakistan (TTP) and Islamist Militancy
Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, particularly its tribal districts, remains a stronghold of the banned Tehreek-e-Taliban Pakistan (TTP). The group has intensified its attacks following the collapse of peace talks with the government in 2022. Seeking to enforce its version of Sharia law, the TTP has carried out high-profile attacks on security forces, police stations, and political figures.
The resurgence of the Afghan Taliban in neighboring Afghanistan has further emboldened the TTP, with reports suggesting that cross-border sanctuaries are facilitating their operations.
According to PICSS, terror attacks surged 42% in January 2025, resulting in 91 deaths and 117 injuries. The Pakistan Army has ramped up counterterrorism operations, leading to frequent clashes with militants.
The government has also sought security cooperation from China, Iran, and Gulf states to bolster its counterterrorism efforts. However, economic instability and political unrest have hindered the implementation of a comprehensive strategy.
The recent Jaffar Express hijacking and the suicide bombing in South Waziristan illustrate the growing threats Pakistan faces. With militant groups expanding their operations, authorities remain on high alert as they work to counter the rising tide of extremism and insurgency.
