JNS: The Baloch Liberation Army (BLA), a militant separatist group, claimed responsibility on Tuesday for hijacking the Jaffar Express, a passenger train operated by Pakistan Railways, and holding 100 passengers hostage in Balochistan. The attack took place after militants ambushed the train by blowing up tracks in the Mushqaf area of Bolan district. Once the train was stopped, the insurgents boarded and took the passengers captive.
In a statement, BLA spokesperson Jeeyand Baloch declared that six Pakistani military personnel had been killed during the assault. The group also issued a warning that any attempt by Pakistani forces to launch a rescue operation would result in the death of the hostages. “We have hundreds of passengers in our custody, and we will act decisively if provoked,” the statement read.
Pakistani military forces have arrived at the scene, while the Balochistan government has imposed emergency measures to manage the crisis. Government spokesperson Shahid Rind confirmed that all relevant authorities are engaged in the operation to resolve the situation.
This incident is part of the ongoing insurgency in Balochistan, a region rich in natural resources, including mineral deposits and the strategically significant Gwadar deep-sea port. The insurgency, fueled by demands for greater autonomy, has led to frequent attacks on government, military, and Chinese interests in the area. Baloch separatist groups accuse the Pakistani government of exploiting the province’s resources for its own benefit.
Security forces remain on high alert as the situation unfolds, with the potential for further escalation. The outcome of this attack may have significant implications for the already volatile region.
