The Baloch Liberation Army (BLA) hijacked the Jaffar Express train in Bolan, Pakistan, taking over 100 passengers hostage and killing six military personnel. The train, which was en route from Quetta in Balochistan to Peshawar in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, was ambushed when the attackers detonated explosives on the railway track, forcing it to stop. The BLA, a separatist militant group, swiftly took control of the train, claiming responsibility for the well-coordinated attack. Following the hijacking, the BLA issued a statement warning the Pakistani government against any military intervention, threatening to execute all hostages if such action was taken. The group confirmed that its fighters had carefully planned the operation in Mashkaf, Dhadar, Bolan, where they targeted the train. They also claimed to have selectively released women, children, and Baloch passengers, keeping only Pakistani military personnel and security officials as hostages.

The attack was executed by specialized units within the BLA, including the Majeed Brigade, STOS, and Fateh Squad. The group reiterated its demand for an end to airstrikes in Balochistan, emphasizing that any military response would lead to severe consequences. The BLA explicitly placed responsibility for potential bloodshed on Pakistani forces if an operation was launched to rescue the hostages. In response, the provincial government has imposed emergency measures and mobilized security institutions to address the crisis. However, challenging terrain has reportedly delayed rescue efforts, even as security forces have been deployed to the site. Railway officials confirmed that the train’s driver sustained serious injuries during the attack.

The hijacking underscores the ongoing conflict in Balochistan, where separatist groups like the BLA have been engaged in a long-standing insurgency against the Pakistani state. The region, rich in minerals and natural gas, holds significant strategic importance, making it a focal point of tensions. Repeated attacks on government forces and infrastructure have further deepened instability in this economically deprived province. Pakistani security forces have launched an operation to resolve the crisis, while authorities remain on high alert. The situation continues to develop as the government seeks to manage both the hostage situation and the broader security challenges posed by the insurgency in Balochistan.

Disclaimer: This Image is taken from The Hawk.