Pakistan train attack: Rescue teams deployed as militants hold 450 passengers hostage

Separatist militants in Pakistan’s volatile Balochistan province launched a daring attack on a train bound for Peshawar on March 11, taking nearly 450 passengers hostage. 

The provincial government, suspecting terrorist involvement, swiftly activated emergency measures, Caliber.Az reports citing Pakistani e-newspaper Dawn.

“There are reports of intense firing at a Jaffar Express [train] going from Quetta to Peshawar," said Shahid Rind, spokesperson for the Balochistan government. He stated that the incident might be linked to terrorism.

In a statement, the Baloch Liberation Army (BLA), a militant separatist group, claimed responsibility for the attack. The group stated that they had taken hostages from the train, including security personnel, and reported the deaths of six military personnel during the assault.

“The Baloch Liberation Army has carried out a meticulously planned operation in Mashkaf, Dhadar, Bolan, where our freedom fighters have blown up the railway track, forcing the Jaffar Express to come to a halt. The fighters swiftly took control of the train, holding all passengers hostage," the group declared.

The militants further warned that they would execute all hostages if Pakistan launched a military operation. “This operation is being conducted jointly by the Majeed Brigade, STOS, and Fateh Squad — specialized units of the BLA. Any military incursion will be met with an equally forceful response," they added.

According to police and railway officials, the train driver was injured in the firing. The train, traveling from Quetta to Peshawar, came under attack as it was making its way through the region.

Rescue teams and security forces have arrived at the scene, initiating operations to locate the militants. Emergency relief teams have been dispatched to assist the driver, who sustained serious injuries in the assault.

Muhammad Kashif, Controller of Railways, confirmed that the train, which had nine coaches, was carrying about 500 passengers. “The train was stopped by armed men in Tunnel No 8. Efforts are being made to contact the passengers and staff,” he told Dawn.

Sindh Home Minister Ziaul Hassan Lanjar condemned the attack, stating, “Passengers were injured due to the firing."

In the wake of the assault, an emergency was declared at the Sibi Hospital. Due to the challenging rocky terrain, officials faced difficulty reaching the site of the attack, according to the Balochistan government spokesperson.

In response, the railway department sent additional trains to the area to assist with rescue efforts, and emergency measures were activated by the provincial government. Authorities have called on the public to remain calm as the situation unfolds.

By Tamilla Hasanova