More than 100 hostages were rescued from a hijacked train in Balochistan, Pakistan, after insurgents attacked and claimed responsibility for the hijacking. Security forces engaged in operations to free the hostages, amidst threats from the Baloch Liberation Army regarding political prisoners. The situation exposes ongoing tensions in the region driven by separatist sentiments.
In a recent incident in southwestern Pakistan, over 100 hostages were rescued from a train that had been hijacked by separatist militants. The train, part of a 450-passenger service, was taken over when insurgents detonated explosives on a railway track, leading to gunfire that resulted in casualties, including three fatalities, among them the train’s operator. The attack occurred in Balochistan province, which has been a hotspot for insurgent activities.
Violence erupted as the Baloch Liberation Army (BLA) claimed responsibility, threatening to execute hostages unless their demands regarding Baloch political prisoners were met within 48 hours. Interior Minister Mohsin Naqvi reported the successful extraction of hostages, although the total number of captives remaining is uncertain. Senior railway officials emphasized the extent of the situation, confirming that dozens had been taken.
The BLA’s motives stem from a pursuit of independence for Balochistan, citing exploitation of regional resources by outsiders. The group has increasingly targeted ethnic Punjabis and military personnel, as seen in past violent incidents. Responses have included a significant military operation to quell the insurgency, which intensified after the Taliban’s takeover of Afghanistan in 2021.
The journey of the Jaffar Express, from Quetta to Peshawar, ended in turmoil as hostages described harrowing escapes through mountainous regions. Eyewitness accounts revealed systematic targeting of individuals based on ethnicity, as militants checked identification cards and selectively took passengers. Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif condemned the attack, affirming that security forces were actively working to regain control, while UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres urged for the hostages’ immediate release.
This incident highlights the pressing security challenges that Pakistan faces, particularly in Balochistan where insurgency persists. The rescue of over 100 hostages underscores the urgent need for effective counter-insurgency measures and addresses the separatist sentiments leading to violence. Continued dialogue and engagement are essential to prevent such escalations in the future.
Original Source: www.thenationalnews.com
