Pakistani forces have refrained from launching direct attacks on a hijacked train in Balochistan, where militants from the Baloch Liberation Army (BLA) are holding 250 passengers captive. Authorities say the complex security operation is hindered by the train’s remote location and the presence of hostages.
Pakistan’s junior interior minister told GEO TV that security personnel are exercising extreme caution, as the militants are strapped with explosive vests and seated among the passengers.
Hijacking and Hostage Demands
The BLA derailed the train inside a tunnel in Bolan on Tuesday, demanding the release of imprisoned militants in exchange for the hostages. Group spokesman Jeeyand Baloch issued the demand, warning of consequences if their conditions are not met.
“The militants have made some suicide bombers sit right next to some hostage passengers,” a security source told Reuters. The group has also threatened to execute the captives if their demands remain unmet.
One of the BLA fighters on the train urged people in the mineral-rich province to join their cause, stating in a Telegram message, “Comrades are shedding their blood for you, for this motherland.”
Ongoing Security Operation
On Tuesday, security forces killed 30 militants and rescued 190 of the 450 passengers aboard. Helicopters are assisting troops in the rugged terrain, while the injured are being treated at hospitals in the Mach district. Survivors are being transported back to their hometowns.
Muhammad Ashraf, one of the passengers, confirmed that several people had been killed in the attack, including the train driver. Meanwhile, a Reuters journalist reported seeing nearly 100 empty coffins at Quetta railway station, where more passengers from the Jaffer Express are expected to arrive.
Security sources told AFP, “So far, 190 passengers have been rescued, and 30 terrorists have been killed. Due to the presence of women and children with suicide bombers, extreme caution is being exercised.”
Eyewitnesses recounted to AFP that the attackers had checked passengers’ identification documents and specifically targeted security personnel.
The tense standoff continues as authorities attempt to resolve the crisis without risking further loss of life.
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