A passenger train carrying approximately 400 people has been hijacked while traveling through Balochistan, a region frequently affected by militant violence.
Reports indicate that the attack was carried out by the Balochistan Liberation Army (BLA), a separatist group. The targeted train, known as the Jaffer Express, was en route from Quetta to Peshawar, covering a distance of 1,600 kilometers when it was ambushed.
Attack Details and Hostage Situation
The attackers reportedly placed a bomb along the railway track near a mountain tunnel, detonating it to stop the train. After halting the train, the militants killed the driver before taking passengers hostage.
In response, Pakistani security forces launched a rescue operation, leading to intense clashes. Reports suggest that 27 militants were killed in the confrontation, while 17 bodies were recovered, including 12 Pakistani military personnel.
Rescue Operations and Hostage Crisis
So far, security forces have successfully rescued 155 passengers, including 15 children, who have been moved to a nearby train station. However, the exact number of remaining hostages and their condition remains unknown.
The Balochistan Liberation Army has issued a 48-hour ultimatum, demanding the release of political prisoners and individuals detained by the military. They have threatened to destroy the train if their demands are not met. Additionally, they warned that for every military operation conducted, ten hostages would be executed.
Reports suggest that some hostages have already been moved to remote mountainous regions, raising concerns about their safety. Security forces continue operations to locate and free the remaining captives.