A security operation is underway in Balochistan, Pakistan, after separatist militants hijacked a passenger train carrying hundreds of passengers. The Jaffer Express was stopped inside a tunnel by armed militants, leading to a tense standoff between security forces and the attackers.
The Incident: Train Hijacked in Balochistan
The Jaffer Express, traveling from Quetta to Peshawar, was intercepted by militants as it entered Tunnel No. 8 in Bolan on Tuesday afternoon. According to Muhammad Kashif, Quetta Railways’ controller, the train had nine coaches and approximately 450 passengers on board at the time of the attack.
Key Details:
- Train Hijacked: Armed militants stopped the train inside a tunnel.
- BLA Claims Responsibility: The Baloch Liberation Army (BLA) took credit for the attack, stating they have taken hostages.
- Threat of Execution: The BLA has warned they will execute hostages if security forces intervene.
- Security Response: Security forces have surrounded the militants and are engaged in an ongoing exchange of fire.
Hostage Situation and Security Response
A security source reported that the militants are using women and children as shields. Despite the challenging situation, security forces are determined to eliminate the attackers.
Updates on Passengers of Jaffer Express:
- Around 60 to 70 passengers managed to disembark safely at Panir Railway Station in Kachhi district.
- Some passengers remain held hostage by the militants.
- Families of passengers, like Junaid Ahmed from Quetta, are desperately seeking updates on their loved ones.
Security Forces and Government Response
Balochistan government spokesperson Shahid Rind confirmed that intense gunfire had been reported from the hijacked train. Given the mountainous terrain of Sibi, access to the train has proven to be a challenge. A relief train has been dispatched to the scene to assist with emergency response efforts.
Terror Threat Prior to the Attack
A letter issued by Balochistan’s Counter-Terrorism Department (CTD) on Friday warned of a planned attack by the BLA, urging authorities to increase security measures. Despite this alert, the militants managed to carry out their attack successfully.
Background: Ongoing Balochistan Insurgency
Balochistan has been plagued by a long-running insurgency, which has intensified in recent years, particularly after the province’s Gwadar Port was leased to China as part of the Belt and Road Initiative.
Reasons for Unrest:
- Economic Exploitation: Militants claim the state is exploiting Balochistan’s rich mineral resources without benefiting local communities.
- Security Concerns: Frequent bombings and attacks on Chinese workers have turned Gwadar into a security hotspot.
- BLA’s Role: The BLA has orchestrated some of the deadliest attacks in Pakistan over the past year.
Developing Story: Updates to Follow
This remains a developing story, with security forces continuing their operation against the militants.
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