Balochistan Militants Hijack Jaffar Express, Take Hundreds Hostage; 6 Dead
Militants from the Baloch Liberation Army (BLA) attacked the Jaffar Express train in Pakistan’s Balochistan province on Tuesday, killing six military personnel and taking hundreds of passengers hostage. The assault, marked by intense firing and a blown-up railway track, has triggered an emergency response from authorities. The BLA has warned of executing hostages if security forces launch a rescue operation.
The Jaffar Express, traveling from Quetta to Peshawar, was ambushed in Mashkaf, Dhadar, Bolan district. The BLA claimed its fighters destroyed the railway track, forcing the train to stop, before seizing control. Around 500 passengers were onboard the nine-coach train, according to Controller Railways Muhammad Kashif.
In a statement, the BLA said, “Our freedom fighters have taken all passengers hostage after killing six military personnel.” The group alleged the operation was meticulously planned and warned, “Any military action will lead to severe consequences.” The attack reflects escalating separatist violence in the region.
A train driver was injured in the firing, prompting the deployment of rescue teams and security forces. An emergency was declared at Sibi Hospital to treat the wounded. Balochistan government spokesperson Shahid Rind said, “Efforts are underway, but the rocky terrain is posing challenges.”
Rescue operations have begun, with additional trains dispatched to the site for support. “Emergency measures have been activated,” Rind told Dawn, urging calm among the public. Security forces are working to track the militants and secure the area.
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The attack follows a surge in terrorist incidents in Balochistan, with the BLA responsible for 302 attacks in 2024, causing over 580 deaths, per The Balochistan Post. Other groups like the BLF and BRAS have also contributed to over 1,000 fatalities last year. The province remains a hotspot for separatist unrest.
Controller Railways Muhammad Kashif said, “The train was stopped in Tunnel No 8 by armed men. We are trying to contact passengers and staff.” The provincial government has labeled the incident a possible terrorist attack, signaling heightened alertness.
Authorities face a tense standoff as the BLA’s hostage threat looms. The outcome of the ongoing operation will determine the fate of the passengers. Updates on rescue efforts and potential negotiations are awaited as the situation unfolds in Balochistan’s volatile landscape.
