Key Points:
- Balochistan Liberation Army (BLA) hijacks Jaffar Express train in Balochistan, Pakistan.
- 155 hostages rescued; 27 rebels killed in ongoing operation.
- Over 100 passengers still held captive; BLA demands release of political prisoners within 48 hours.
- Pakistani forces continue rescue efforts amidst tense standoff.
Quetta: In a dramatic and intense operation, Pakistani security forces have successfully freed 155 hostages from the Jaffar Express train, which was hijacked by the Balochistan Liberation Army (BLA) on Tuesday. The rescue operation resulted in the killing of 27 rebels, while more than 100 passengers remain in captivity. The BLA has issued a 48-hour ultimatum to the Pakistani government, demanding the release of Baloch political prisoners and activists in exchange for the hostages.
The hijacking occurred when the Jaffar Express, carrying over 500 passengers from Quetta to Peshawar, was intercepted by armed BLA militants in a tunnel near the mountainous terrain of Gudalar and Piru Kunri. The attackers detonated explosives on the tracks, forcing the train to halt, and then opened fire on the vehicle. The BLA claimed responsibility for the attack, stating that they had taken 182 people hostage, including active-duty Pakistani Army personnel and intelligence officers.
During the initial stages of the hijacking, the BLA released women, elderly individuals, and children from the train, while retaining military personnel and intelligence agents as hostages. Security sources indicate that the separatists are in contact with supporters in Afghanistan and have positioned suicide bombers alongside some of the captives.
The Pakistani government responded swiftly to the crisis, mobilizing the army, air force, and police for a rescue operation. However, the BLA warned the government to withdraw its forces, threatening to execute hostages if their demands were not met. After an initial pause, the government resumed operations cautiously, resulting in the rescue of 155 hostages so far.
The BLA has reiterated its demands for the unconditional release of Baloch political prisoners and activists within a 48-hour timeframe, warning of severe consequences if these demands are not fulfilled. Pakistani Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif and President Asif Ali Zardari have condemned the attack, emphasizing the need for swift action to secure the release of all hostages.
The ongoing crisis highlights the deep-seated tensions between the Pakistani government and Baloch separatist groups, who have long sought independence for the resource-rich Balochistan province. The region has experienced frequent attacks and disruptions, including recent blasts that suspended rail services for months.
