Pakistani forces successfully freed 190 passengers from a train that was hijacked by separatist militants. The Jaffar Express was traveling from Quetta to Peshawar when militants blew up the track and opened fire on the train, killing 11 people in Pakistan’s first hijacking incident. The militants, armed with rockets, grenades, and guns, then took passengers hostage, including law enforcement personnel. The Baloch Liberation Army claimed responsibility for the attack and demanded the release of political prisoners within 48 hours.
A rescue operation is ongoing to free the remaining hostages who are surrounded by militants wearing explosives-laden vests. The BLA stated that none of its fighters were killed and claimed to have released women, children, the sick, and Baloch civilians. So far, 27 militants have been killed in the rescue operation.
Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif condemned the attack and vowed to continue the fight against terrorism. The hostages who were released had to walk several hours to reach safety at a railway station in Balochistan. The BLA seeks independence for Balochistan, a province bordering Afghanistan and Iran. The conflict in Balochistan is fueled by antidemocratic elements, U.S.-supported destabilizing activities in Afghanistan, and endemic terrorism in Pakistan. China strongly condemned the train attack and pledged to support Pakistan’s counterterrorism efforts.
Note: The image is for illustrative purposes only and is not the original image associated with the presented article. Due to copyright reasons, we are unable to use the original images. However, you can still enjoy the accurate and up-to-date content and information provided.
