NA pays tribute to security forces

At least 25 bodies retrieved from train siege

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ISLAMABAD/MACH:

The National Assembly on Thursday unanimously passed a resolution reaffirming the country's unwavering commitment to eliminating terrorism from every corner of the nation and safeguarding its sovereignty.

The resolution tabled by Federal Minister for Parliamentary Affairs Dr Fazal Dr Tariq Fazal Chaudhary firmly condemned the hijacking of Jaffar Express and all acts of terrorism that endanger the lives of citizens and disrupt the peace of the nation.

The resolution expressed resolve to take every possible measure to eliminate terrorism from every corner of our nation and affirms that no group, no individual, and no ideology that seeks to undermine our nation's peace, security prosperity, and sovereignty will be allowed to spread fear, hatred, or violence within the territorial limits of the country.

Furthermore, pledges not to allow any terrorist activity to go unchecked in any part of our country and commits to working relentlessly to root out terrorism in all its forms and manifestations, ensuring that those who attempt to destabilize the country face the full force of the law.

This House expresses deepest respect and gratitude to the brave men and women who have sacrificed their lives in this tragic incident, recognizing their courage, sacrifice, and patriotism.

This House extends sincere appreciation to the Pakistan Army, FC, and other law enforcement agencies for their unwavering commitment, bravery, and sacrifices in safeguarding the lives of citizens and protecting the integrity of Pakistan.

Their heroic efforts in neutralizing the terrorists involved in this incident reflect the resolve and readiness of our security forces to defend our nation at all costs.

The House calls upon the people of Pakistan, regardless of ethnicity, religion, or background, to unite in the fight against terrorism and to reject extremism in all its forms, ensuring the peace, safety, and prosperity of our nation for future generations.

Meanwhile, the bodies of at least 25 people, including 21 hostages, killed in a train siege by terrorists in Balochistan were retrieved from the site on Thursday ahead of the first funerals, officials said.

Security forces said they freed more than 340 train passengers in a two-day rescue operation that ended late on Wednesday after a banned group bombed a remote railway track in Bolan and stormed a train with around 450 passengers on board.

The assault was claimed by the outlawed Baloch Liberation Army (BLA).

Death tolls have varied, with the military saying in an official statement that "21 innocent hostages" were killed by the terrorists as well as four soldiers in the rescue operation.

A railway official in Balochistan said the bodies of 25 people were transported by train away from the hostage site to the nearby town of Mach on Thursday morning.

"Deceased were identified as 19 military passengers, one police and one railway official, while four bodies are yet to be identified," the official, who spoke on condition of anonymity, told AFP.

A senior local military official overseeing operations confirmed the details.

An army official earlier put the military toll at 28.

Passengers who escaped from the siege said after walking for hours through rugged mountains to reach safety that they saw people being shot dead by the terrorists. (WITH INPUT FROM AFP)