The security situation in Pakistan’s Balochistan region took a drastic turn as armed militants attacked a passenger train, taking multiple hostages. The attack, carried out by the Baloch Liberation Army (BLA), targeted the Jaffar Express traveling from Quetta to Peshawar. This alarming incident once again highlights the ongoing insurgency in the region and the security risks faced by civilians.
Attack on the Jaffar Express
The militants reportedly fired at the train before storming it in the remote Sibi district. According to military sources, the BLA first bombed the railway track, causing damage and halting the train’s movement.
Initial reports indicate that at least three individuals, including the train driver, sustained injuries during the attack. Security forces were immediately dispatched, with helicopters deployed to aid in rescue efforts. A senior police official reported that the train remains stranded near a tunnel surrounded by mountains, making immediate rescue operations difficult.
Hostages and Evacuation Efforts
Authorities have not yet confirmed the exact number of passengers taken hostage, but reports suggest that over 400 passengers were booked on the train. While some passengers managed to escape and reach nearby railway stations, others, including women and children, were seen walking towards the city of Sibi.
The BLA, known for its insurgent activities against Pakistani forces, has warned of severe consequences if an attempt is made to rescue those held hostage. The group has been involved in several attacks over the years, targeting police stations, railway lines, and key infrastructure in an attempt to further their separatist movement.
Lack of Communication and Family Distress
One of the biggest challenges in managing the situation is the lack of internet and mobile network coverage in the area. Families of the passengers are desperately seeking information, with many gathering at the Quetta railway station. The uncertainty and fear among them continue to rise as authorities struggle to establish contact with those on board.
A passenger’s son, Muhammad Ashraf, voiced his concerns about his father, who left Quetta for Lahore on the same train. Like many others, he has been unable to reach his loved one, further adding to the anxiety surrounding the crisis.
Balochistan’s Long-Standing Conflict
Balochistan, Pakistan’s largest province, is rich in natural resources but remains one of the least developed regions. The BLA has been waging an insurgency for decades, demanding independence. Their attacks, primarily targeting government forces and infrastructure, have made Balochistan a hotspot for militant activities. The Pakistani government, along with the US and the UK, has designated the BLA as a terrorist organization.
