In a tragic incident in Pakistan’s Balochistan province, separatist militants hijacked the Jaffer Express train, resulting in the deaths of at least ten individuals, including nine security personnel and the train driver. The attack occurred while the train was travelling from Quetta to Peshawar, with approximately 450 passengers on board.
On Tuesday afternoon, armed men intercepted the train as it approached Tunnel No. 8. Reports of “intense gunfire” emerged, leading to a chaotic scene. Following the ambush, security forces surrounded the area, engaging in a firefight with the militants, who were reportedly using women and children as shields during the standoff.
The Baloch Liberation Army (BLA), a militant group advocating for Balochistan’s independence, claimed responsibility for the hijacking. They threatened to execute hostages if a security operation was initiated against them. Balochistan’s Chief Minister, Mir Sarfraz Bugti, announced that operations to neutralise the attackers would persist until the last militant was apprehended, underlining the government’s commitment to restoring safety in the region.
Access to the train, positioned in a mountainous area, has proven challenging for rescue teams. Meanwhile, family members of those on the train expressed distress over losing contact with their loved ones during the incident. Emergency response efforts were promptly initiated, with a relief train dispatched to the scene.
The attack comes amidst an ongoing insurgency in Balochistan, exacerbated by local grievances over the exploitation of the region’s natural resources. The growing Chinese presence, particularly related to the Gwadar port—considered a key asset in China’s Belt and Road Initiative—has further fueled resentment among the local population, many of whom feel excluded from the economic benefits.
Authorities had previously issued a threat alert regarding planned attacks by the BLA, highlighting the deteriorating security landscape in the province. The BLA has been responsible for numerous deadly attacks in recent times, underlining the persistent volatility and challenges facing Balochistan.
As the situation unfolds, the ramifications of such assaults continue to resonate throughout the region, raising concerns about safety for those travelling and the ongoing struggle for autonomy.