The Pakistan military successfully freed 104 passengers from the hijacked Jaffar Express train this morning, according to a report by PTI. Among the rescued individuals were 58 men, 31 women, and 15 children. The operation is still ongoing.
On Tuesday, the Baloch Liberation Army (BLA) claimed responsibility for the hijacking, stating that they had taken control of the train and held over 180 people hostage, including passengers and military personnel. The group also asserted that at least 20 Pakistani soldiers were killed in the attack.
The Jaffar Express was en route from Quetta, the capital of Balochistan, to Peshawar when it came under attack. Following the assault, the train came to a halt in a remote area of Bolan district, leaving the fate of the passengers uncertain.
Government spokesperson Shahid Rind confirmed that security forces were dispatched to the area to handle the situation, but he did not provide further details.
In a statement, the BLA claimed to have repelled an initial ground operation by the Pakistani military. They stated that after intense fighting, the troops were forced to withdraw, but airstrikes from helicopters and drones were ongoing.
Key Developments:
Pakistani forces have rescued 104 hostages.
The BLA had earlier taken control of the Jaffar Express, holding around 450 passengers and railway staff hostage.
The group warned that it would execute captives if the military launched an operation.
Reports suggest that women, children, the elderly, and ethnic Baloch passengers were released earlier.
Security forces continue their efforts to regain full control of the train.
The BLA is the largest armed separatist group fighting for an independent Balochistan, arguing that Pakistan exploits the province’s rich resources while neglecting its people. The region’s rugged terrain has long served as a stronghold for insurgent groups.
