Pakistani Forces Rescue 190 Hostages as Separatist Gunmen Hijack Train with 450 Passengers
Pakistani security forces have successfully freed 190 hostages after separatist militants from the Balochistan Liberation Army (BLA) hijacked a train carrying 450 passengers, including military personnel.
The train was overtaken on Tuesday while traveling through the remote and volatile region of Balochistan, where the BLA has long sought independence from Pakistan.
A large-scale military operation was launched on Wednesday in an effort to free the remaining 250 hostages still held on board. The operation has been complicated by the presence of BLA fighters, some of whom are reportedly wearing explosive vests and are holding captives as human shields.
Pakistani officials have confirmed that at least 30 BLA militants have been killed during the clashes, though the total number of casualties—including among soldiers, passengers, and rebels—remains unclear.
The BLA, which has previously claimed responsibility for attacks in the region, took credit for the hijacking and issued a statement saying they were open to negotiations for a prisoner swap.
The group also threatened to begin executing hostages unless Pakistan released Baloch political prisoners, activists, and missing persons it claims have been abducted by the military.
The separatists have given the government 48 hours to meet their demands, but as of yet, there has been no official response to the ultimatum.
Pakistani authorities have condemned the attack, with both President Asif Ali Zardari and Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif labeling the hijacking as “an act of terrorism.” Government spokesperson Shahid Rind emphasized that the attack was a deliberate attempt to disrupt peace and security in the region, which has seen growing unrest due to Baloch nationalist movements.
As the operation to rescue the remaining hostages continues, the situation remains tense, with fears that the rebels may escalate violence if their demands are not met.
Security forces are proceeding with caution, prioritizing the safety of the hostages while attempting to neutralize the armed separatists.
