An attack on a train in Pakistan's Balochistan by militants has resulted in hostages being taken, as authorities struggle to respond amid a communication blackout in the remote area.
Train Hostage Crisis in Pakistan's Balochistan Region
Train Hostage Crisis in Pakistan's Balochistan Region
Armed militants from the Baloch Liberation Army have launched a serious attack on the Jaffar Express, leading to numerous hostages.
In a shocking incident reported from the Balochistan region of Pakistan, armed militants belonging to the Baloch Liberation Army (BLA) attacked the Jaffar Express Train carrying hundreds of passengers. The assault occurred while the train was en route from Quetta to Peshawar, sparking chaos as the BLA fired on the train and detonated explosives on the tracks, halting its progress in the Sibi district. The separatist group claims to have taken control of the train.
Initial reports indicate that at least three individuals, including the train driver, suffered injuries during the attack. Local police have confirmed that security forces are mobilizing to the area, including helicopter units, in an effort to resolve the hostage situation. A government spokesman described the scene as one of "intense firing," and a senior police official noted that the train remains stranded near a mountain tunnel.
The militant group has issued a warning against any attempts for a rescue, threatening severe consequences and underscoring the risks of their ongoing insurgency for independence. The BLA is implicated in various deadly attacks targeting police, transportation infrastructure, and other strategic locations throughout the region.
According to Quetta's railway controller, there were approximately 400-450 passengers aboard the train; however, the exact number of hostages remains unconfirmed. Meanwhile, reports indicate that several women and children managed to disembark and have begun making their way towards Sibi. Families of passengers are left in distress as they seek information at the Quetta railway station, but officials confirm that communication with those on the train has been inhibited due to a lack of internet and mobile service in the remote area of Balochistan.
The situation continues to develop, raising concerns about the safety of those still on board the train and the potential ramifications of the BLA's actions, especially given Balochistan's rich natural resources and its longstanding history of conflict and underdevelopment. Further updates are anticipated as police and military efforts unfold.
