In a dramatic security operation, Pakistani forces successfully freed at least 155 hostages after armed rebels hijacked the Jaffar Express in the restive Balochistan region on Tuesday. The incident occurred when the train, carrying over 400 passengers from Quetta to Peshawar, was intercepted by heavily armed militants of the Balochistan Liberation Army (BLA) in a remote tunnel. A fierce overnight gunfight between Pakistani security forces and the rebels left 27 militants dead.
Details of the Hijack
The Jaffar Express was traveling on a route that had only recently reopened after a month-long suspension. The attackers set off explosives on the railway track, forcing the train to halt before storming it and taking the passengers hostage. Among the 155 freed hostages were 58 men, 31 women, and 15 children. They were taken to Mach, a nearby town where a makeshift hospital was set up to provide medical care.
Security officials confirmed that a significant number of hostages are still on board, but the exact figure remains unclear. Efforts to rescue the remaining passengers are ongoing.
Eyewitness Accounts
Survivors described the ordeal as terrifying. Muhammad Bilal, one of the freed hostages, said, “I can’t find the words to describe how we managed to escape. It was terrifying. We walked for hours through mountainous terrain, leaving behind many relatives and fellow passengers.”
Military Response and Casualties
Following the hijack, Pakistani security forces launched a swift operation, surrounding the train and engaging in an intense gunfight with the militants. Officials confirmed that 27 rebels were killed during the operation. Security forces have now secured the Mach Railway Station and increased patrols in the surrounding areas to prevent further attacks.
Context and Background
The Balochistan Liberation Army (BLA), which has been waging an insurgency against the Pakistani state for decades, claimed responsibility for the attack. The group has previously targeted military convoys, infrastructure, and government installations in its push for Baloch independence.
Ongoing Situation
While the successful rescue of 155 hostages marks a major breakthrough, security officials are continuing efforts to secure the release of the remaining passengers. The government has vowed to hold the perpetrators accountable and prevent further incidents of this nature.
