The military's intervention reportedly led to the deaths of 33 militants, while tragically 25 hostages were killed prior to the operation. The ongoing search continues as the authorities seek to ensure no remaining threats linger from the incident.
Pakistan Military Rescues over 300 Hostages from Balochistan Train Siege
Pakistan Military Rescues over 300 Hostages from Balochistan Train Siege
In a major operation, Pakistan's army successfully liberated more than 300 hostages from a passenger train hijacked by militants in Balochistan province.
In a dramatic military operation in Balochistan, Pakistan’s army announced the successful rescue of more than 300 hostages from a passenger train taken over by militants on Tuesday. During the operation, military spokespersons reported that 33 militants were killed, efforts that aim to address the violent actions of the Baloch Liberation Army (BLA). Tragically, prior to the military's initiative, 21 civilian hostages and four military personnel lost their lives at the hands of the BLA, who had held the train hostage.
The train was carrying roughly 440 passengers when it was ambushed, prompting subsequent military actions. Security officials suspect that some militants might have fled during the siege, potentially taking an unknown number of passengers with them into the rugged mountainous terrain surrounding the scene. The military continues its search for those who may remain unaccounted for in the aftermath.
The Baloch Liberation Army, which is labeled a terrorist organization by Pakistani authorities and several Western nations, has historically challenged the federal government for greater autonomy or independence for Balochistan—a province rich in resources but regarded by local rebel groups as neglected by Islamabad. The hijacking marks a significant escalation, as it is reportedly the first of its kind involving a train.
Reports indicate that roughly 100 of the passengers were members of the security forces. The militants had demanded the release of Baloch political prisoners within 48 hours, threatening to execute hostages if their requests were not met. Eyewitness accounts have painted vivid pictures of panic during the assault, with one passenger recounting the harrowing atmosphere as gunfire erupted.
Communication with the train’s passengers was severely limited due to the area's lack of internet and phone coverage. Some managed to escape, trekking for up to four hours to the nearest railway station to seek safety. One such escapee, Muhammad Ashraf, described the challenging journey homeward with women and children in tow.
In response to the crisis, military forces deployed helicopters and hundreds of troops, managing to free over 100 hostages by the following morning. The hijacking itself lasted more than 30 hours, and information regarding the incident has been closely monitored by authorities throughout the ordeal. Military spokespeople assured that justice would be pursued for all individuals involved in the attack as the search operations continue.
