Gunmen Hijack Passenger Train in Pakistan, Threaten to Blow It Up

A militant group in Pakistan has hijacked a passenger train carrying around 400 people, threatening to blow it up if their demands are not met. The Balochistan Liberation Army (BLA), a separatist group, carried out the attack on March 11, targeting the Jaffer Express as it passed through a tunnel in the Bolan district of southwestern Pakistan.

Train Hijacking and Attack Details

The Jaffer Express, which was traveling from Quetta to Peshawar, came under heavy fire as it moved through the volatile Balochistan province. Attackers reportedly detonated explosives on the railway track, halting the train and forcing passengers into a state of panic. Security personnel on board attempted to fend off the attack, leading to an intense exchange of gunfire.

According to Pakistani officials, at least 10 people have been killed, while 200 passengers have been released. However, the BLA claims to have taken over 100 hostages, including security personnelstationed on the train.

Government Response and Rising Tensions

Government spokesman Shahid Rind condemned the attack, calling it “an act of terrorism.” He confirmed that security forces are working to de-escalate the situation and ensure the safe rescue of the remaining hostages.

The Balochistan Liberation Army has been waging an insurgency for years, demanding greater autonomy for the Balochistan region. The province, rich in natural resources, has been a hotbed of tensions between separatist militants and the government. The group has previously targeted military installations, infrastructure, and foreign projects, but this large-scale hijacking marks a new level of escalation.

Uncertain Fate of Hostages

With armed militants controlling the train and issuing threats to destroy it, authorities are working against time to negotiate a peaceful resolution. Meanwhile, families of the passengers are anxiously awaiting updates, fearing for their loved ones’ safety.

As security forces mobilize to address the crisis, the outcome remains uncertain, with officials hoping to avoid further casualties while preventing the hijackers from carrying out their threats.👇👇👇