Separatist militants from Pakistan hijacked a train in Balochistan on Tuesday and took passengers, hostage, while the situation remained extremely strained. About 400 passengers were traveling on the Jaffar Express when Baloch Liberation Army militants attacked it between Quetta and Peshawar. The militants attacked the train while it was en route to Peshawar by firing at the driver which resulted in both injuries and passenger chaos. Authorities verified the attack yet refused to disclose specific details regarding injuries or fatalities.
The BLA claimed responsibility for the assault, stating they had captured several hostages, including members of Pakistan’s military, police, and intelligence services. They also declared that six military personnel had been killed in the attack. The group has issued a stark warning to the Pakistani authorities, threatening to execute all hostages if any military intervention takes place. “The BLA issues a clear warning that if the occupying forces attempt any military operation, the consequences will be severe,” they stated, placing the blame for any bloodshed solely on the government.
Pakistani Military Launches Counter-Operation After Attack
Pakistani authorities immediately dispatched security forces to the scene, launching a counter-operation. Despite their efforts, the militants asserted that they had successfully repelled the army’s ground forces. The BLA claimed they had caused the retreat of Pakistani ground troops after fierce clashes. “Baloch Liberation Army commanders have completely repulsed the ground operation of the occupying army after capturing the Jaffar Express,” they said.
Reports: No Point of Contact with the Hostages Found
Meanwhile, local media reported that no contact had been established with the hostages aboard the train. There were also reports of several wounded passengers, but the situation remained unclear. The provincial government of Balochistan has imposed emergency measures and mobilized resources to address the unfolding crisis. Shahid Rind, a government spokesperson, confirmed the deployment of various institutions to manage the incident.
The Balochistan province stands as the central ground of a continuing insurgency because separatist organisations fight for both complete independence and self-governance. Baloch resistance groups have intensified their operations against both Pakistani and Chinese interests through new attacks in the region. The region stands as one of the principal points where Pakistan faces its separatist conflict.
