According to reports, following are the latest updates on the Balochistan terror attack and counter-terrorism operations by security forces as of Thursday (13 March):

• On Wednesday (12 March) evening, the Pakistani Army confirmed that the Jaffar Express operation was over and all 33 militants involved in the hijacking were killed by security personnel. The hostage rescue operation was carried out by a joint task force of Pakistan’s Army, Air force, Frontier Corps (FC) and the Special Services Group.
• 21 passengers and four Frontier Corps personnel also died in the operation; 37 of the rescued passengers were also injured during the attack, and have been sent for medical treatment. However, no hostages were harmed during final rescue phase on Wednesday (12 March).
• As of Thursday, (13 March), the bomb disposal squad is expected to conduct further clearance and inspections of the train and the surrounding areas, while patrolling teams are also expected to carry out combing and sanitisation operations in nearby areas within Balochistan.
• The Balochistan Liberation Army (BLA), designated a terrorist group by the Pakistan Government, has claimed responsibility for the attack. Security personnel have indicated the same, but are yet to issue an official confirmation. Meanwhile, in an address to the Balochistan Assembly, Chief Minister (CM) Sarfraz Bugti criticisted the BLA and other separatist groups for attacks in the province.
• Furthermore, the Army also alleged that the Jaffar Express attackers were in contact with associated terror groups from Afghanistan, and urged Afghan authorities to take action against groups acting against Pakistan’s interests.
• Meanwhile, all train services within Balochistan continue to remain suspended as of Thursday (13 March), with the Pakistan Railways (PR) likely to resume services within the province after safety assurances and clearance from security forces.