More than 100 Hostages Released from Hijacked Train in Pakistan

More than 100 hostages were freed from a hijacked train in Balochistan, Pakistan, following a militant attack. The BLA claimed responsibility and threatened further violence if their demands for the return of political prisoners were not addressed. The incident underscores ongoing tensions in the region, with a significant military response initiated by authorities.

Authorities in Pakistan reported the liberation of over 100 hostages from a train hijacked in Balochistan province. The train, which was carrying at least 450 passengers, was targeted by separatist militants who blew up a railway track and opened fire. These insurgents took dozens of individuals hostage, claiming that they were holding 214 people and threatening executions if their demands were not met. Tragically, three individuals, including the train driver, lost their lives during the incident in Sibi district, and several passengers were reported injured.

Senior police officer Rana Dilawar indicated that security forces had launched a robust operation, including aerial support, to regain control and rescue hostages. Interior Minister Mohsin Naqvi reported that over 100 individuals had been freed, but details regarding the remaining captives remained uncertain. Muhammad Kashif, a railway official, noted that the total number of passengers on board exceeded 450, thus reinforcing the urgency of the situation.

The Baloch Liberation Army (BLA) claimed responsibility for the hijacking and demanded the release of Baloch political prisoners within 48 hours, threatening further actions against hostages should their requirements be unmet. They specifically mentioned that Pakistani soldiers and security personnel were among those captured during the attack on the Jaffar Express train, bound for Peshawar when it was ambushed.

Witnesses revealed harrowing experiences, with some freed hostages detailing treacherous journeys through mountainous terrain to safety. One survivor, Muhammad Bilal, expressed the profound anxiety experienced during the incident, recounting the terror witnessed first-hand. An anonymous passenger described how gunmen meticulously checked identities and subsequently targeted soldiers, further accentuating the terrifying circumstances that unfolded.

The conflict in Balochistan has escalated with a surge in violence, particularly after the Taliban’s takeover of Afghanistan in 2021. The BLA has been vocal about its stance against perceived exploitation by outsiders, historically leading to violent anti-Pakistan sentiments and attacks against non-local individuals. Pakistani Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif condemned the attack, asserting that security personnel were actively combating the militants, while the UN Secretary-General urged for the immediate release of all hostages.

In summary, the recent hijacking of a train in Pakistan’s Balochistan province by separatist militants has resulted in the release of over 100 hostages amid a backdrop of violence and demand for political prisoners. The BLA’s motives reflect broader regional tensions and a long-standing insurgency. Efforts by Pakistani authorities to resolve the situation included military operations, ultimately resulting in some hostages being freed, yet the threat of violence persists as demands remain unmet.

Original Source: www.thenationalnews.com