Chaos in Balochistan: The Jaffar Express Hijacking and its Aftermath

A militant hijacking of the Jaffar Express in Balochistan resulted in chaos and multiple casualties. While some passengers escaped, the attack underscored the longstanding conflict in the region and the Balochistan Liberation Army’s insurgency against the Pakistani state.

In a shocking incident unfolding in the remote Bolan Pass of Balochistan, Pakistan, the Jaffar Express was hijacked by militants from the Balochistan Liberation Army (BLA), who bombed the train tracks and opened fire on the approximately 440 passengers onboard. The attack began when the train, traveling from Quetta to Peshawar, came under assault, bringing a sudden end to the journey that many had taken amid the scenic yet troubled backdrop of southwestern Pakistan.

Passenger Mehboob Hussain described the chaos, stating, "I was a passenger on the train that was attacked." As the loud explosion echoed, the passengers were thrust into panic, with militants storming the carriages shortly thereafter. The BLA, a group known for its violent opposition to the Pakistani government, quickly took responsibility, threatening the lives of hostages if their demands regarding the release of political prisoners were not met within 48 hours.

The siege escalated into a 30-hour ordeal filled with violence and fear. While estimates suggest that 300 of the hostages were waved free, the fate of the remaining 140 remains uncertain. Eyewitness accounts portray "doomsday scenes" aboard the train, with many passengers recalling their harrowing experiences during the attack. A police officer who was on board and attempted to engage the assailants reflected on the dire situation, noting that their numbers were overwhelming and soon their ammunition ran dry.

Following the initial hostage-taking, the BLA militants separated the passengers based on their ethnicity, echoing the group's longstanding grievances over perceived injustices faced by Baloch people. The full extent of the violence became evident when accounts emerged of civilians and military personnel being executed amidst the chaos as the group intensified its threats after securing hostages.

Amidst the turmoil, some passengers were selectively released, including women and children, while others had to navigate treacherous terrain to escape. Noor Muhammad, one of the freed passengers, recounted how he and others were forced from the train and sought refuge after their lengthy escape through wilderness.

As night fell on the hijack situation, further gunfire rang out, punctuating the anguish of those still trapped on the train. Many expressed horror at witnessing brutal killings, with accounts of individuals pleading for their lives falling on deaf ears.

The standoff reached a dramatic turning point at dawn as Pakistani forces engaged the militants, finally allowing some hostages to flee amidst the revival of gunfire. While the military announced that the situation had been brought under control and several hostage-takers were neutralized, questions remain regarding the missing passengers and the BLA's continued threats against the state.

In the wake of this incident, many in Balochistan advocate for increased attention to the region's plight, seeking support and solutions to the enduring violence and unrest that fuels such tragic events. Mr. Noor, grateful after enduring this harrowing experience, stated, “Thank God,” recognizing the fragile line between survival and tragedy in a war-torn area.