Pakistani forces have managed to free 190 passengers from a train that was hijacked by separatist militants in Balochistan province. The militants, armed with rockets, grenades, and guns, blew up the railway track and opened fire on the train, killing 11 people in Pakistan’s first hijacking incident. The militants then took hostages, with reports indicating that 214 people were being held captive. The Baloch Liberation Army (BLA) claimed responsibility for the attack and demanded the release of Baloch political prisoners.
The rescue operation to free the remaining hostages is ongoing, with security officials reporting that 27 militants have been killed so far. The BLA claims to have released women, children, the sick, and Baloch civilians, but the exact number and status of the remaining hostages are unclear. The train remains stuck in a tunnel, with the area cordoned off by security forces.
Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif condemned the attack as cowardly and emphasized the fight against terrorism. The BLA seeks independence for Balochistan, fueled by the province’s resource-rich status and its ethnic Baloch minority. The conflict in the region has persisted due to antidemocratic practices, external influences like U.S. activities in Afghanistan, and rampant terrorism in Pakistan.
Militant violence in Balochistan has increased following the Taliban’s resurgence in neighboring Afghanistan. Both Pakistan and Afghanistan have accused each other of supporting insurgents. The BLA has targeted Pakistani security forces and civilians, including Chinese nationals. China has expressed strong condemnation of the train attack and pledged support for Pakistan’s counterterrorism efforts.
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