NEW DELHI: In a bold and alarming move, the Baloch Liberation Army (BLA), a separatist militant group, hijacked the Jaffar Express passenger train on March 11. The train, carrying approximately 500 passengers across nine coaches, was en route from Quetta in Balochistan to Peshawar in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa when it was attacked in the remote Sibi district of Balochistan province.
The assailants reportedly bombed the railway track, forcing the train to halt near Tunnel No. 8. They then boarded the train, injuring the driver during the assault. Security personnel on board engaged in a firefight with the attackers.
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BLA spokesperson Jeeyand Baloch claimed responsibility for the operation, stating that over 100 passengers were taken hostage. He noted that women, children, and Baloch passengers were released, ensuring that primarily โserving personnel of the occupying forcesโ remained captive. The BLA warned that any military intervention would result in severe consequences for the hostages.
Government Response
Shahid Rind, a spokesperson for the Balochistan government, confirmed the incident and stated that emergency measures have been implemented. All relevant institutions have been mobilized to address the crisis. Rescue operations are underway, with security forces and ambulances dispatched to the site. However, the rugged terrain poses significant challenges to the rescue efforts.
Background on the Baloch Liberation Army
The BLA has been engaged in a long-standing insurgency, seeking independence for the Balochistan region from Pakistan. The group has previously targeted infrastructure and security forces to further its cause. In November 2024, a suicide bombing at Quettaโs railway station, attributed to the BLA, resulted in 27 fatalities, including railway staff, security personnel, and passengers.
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As of now, the exact number of hostages remains uncertain, with reports indicating figures ranging from over 100 to approximately 450. The Pakistani authorities are working diligently to resolve the situation, prioritizing the safety of the passengers. The international community is closely monitoring the developments, given the potential implications for regional security.
This incident underscores the persistent security challenges in Pakistanโs Balochistan province and highlights the ongoing tensions between separatist groups and the central government.
