Baloch Separatists Hijack Jaffar Express: Take 120 Hostages, eliminated 22

Quetta, March 11 – A passenger train traveling from Quetta to Peshawar was attacked by armed assailants in Balochistan’s restive region, leaving the train driver critically wounded and several passengers injured. The attack occurred on the border of Sibi and Bolan, an area known for insurgent activity.

While confirming the attack, the Balochistan government acknowledged ongoing security operations, with emergency measures imposed at Sibi Hospital to treat the injured.

Meanwhile, the Baloch Liberation Army (BLA) has claimed responsibility for the attack, alleging that its fighters hijacked the Jaffar Express and took 120 passengers hostage. In a statement, the group claimed that 22 military personnel were killed in the attack and warned of dire consequences if security forces attempted military action.

“Our freedom fighters have blown up the railway track, forcing the train to stop. The fighters swiftly took control of the train, holding all passengers hostage,” the statement read.

The separatist group has threatened mass executions if the military intervenes, intensifying concerns about the ongoing crisis in the province.

The BLA has been involved in an insurgency against the Pakistani state, citing historical grievances, economic marginalization, and demands for greater autonomy. Balochistan, despite being rich in natural resources, remains one of the country’s poorest regions, fueling discontent among locals. The Pakistani government has blamed separatist groups for targeting security forces and critical infrastructure, while the BLA has accused Islamabad of human rights abuses.

Security forces have launched an operation to secure the train and rescue the hostages, as tensions continue to escalate in the province.