Over 100 Hostages Rescued from Hijacked Train in Balochistan, Pakistan

A train hijacked by separatist militants in Balochistan, Pakistan, resulted in over 100 hostages being freed after an intense military operation. The Baloch Liberation Army claimed responsibility and threatened further violence if their demands were not met within 48 hours. Several casualties occurred during the attack, and the situation highlights the region’s long-standing insurgency issues.

In a significant development, more than 100 hostages have been freed from a hijacked train in Balochistan, Pakistan. The train, which was carrying approximately 450 passengers, was taken over by separatist militants who detonated explosives on the railway track. Authorities reported that insurgents opened fire on the train and threatened to execute 214 hostages, resulting in several casualties, including the train driver. The situation quickly escalated with the Pakistani military engaging the attackers while helicopters were deployed to assist.

Interior Minister Mohsin Naqvi announced the successful release of over 100 hostages while the exact number of remaining captives remains uncertain. The Baloch Liberation Army (BLA), the militant group responsible for the attack, has demanded the release of Baloch political prisoners within 48 hours, threatening to kill hostages if their demands are not met. They also stated they would execute ten individuals as a response to military actions. The BLA seeks independence for the Balochistan province, claiming that its rich natural resources are exploited by outsiders.

The incident has heightened tensions in the region, which has witnessed increased violence, particularly following the Taliban’s rise to power in Afghanistan. The hostages, including members of the Pakistani army, were reported to include civilians and were subjected to identity checks by the attackers. Some hostages described their escape as harrowing, recounting a long trek through difficult terrain.

Notably, BLA militants have made headlines for targeting Pakistani civilians and foreign nationals linked to economic projects, alongside attacking military personnel. The group is said to have around 3,000 fighters and has been involved in multiple attacks against both security forces and civilians, with government efforts to suppress their activities not fully effective. Pakistan’s Prime Minister, Shehbaz Sharif, condemned the attack and assured that security forces were countering the militants. Additionally, UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres urged for the immediate release of all hostages.

The recent hijacking incident in Balochistan underscores the ongoing security challenges in the region, driven by militant activities seeking independence and addressing grievances related to resource exploitation. The successful release of over 100 hostages is a positive development; however, the situation remains precarious with ongoing threats from the BLA. Calls from international figures for peace and the safety of individuals continue to be relevant as the Pakistani authorities grapple with insurgency challenges.

Original Source: www.thenationalnews.com