Train hijacked in Pakistan by rebels, 155 hostages freed, 27 rebels killed

Armed militants from the Balochistan Liberation Army (BLA) hijacked the Jaffar Express in Balochistan, taking over 450 passengers hostage. The attack occurred in a remote tunnel while the train was traveling from Quetta to Peshawar. Pakistani security forces launched a rescue operation, freeing at least 155 hostages, including 58 men, 31 women, and 15 children. The exact number of remaining hostages is unclear.

A gunfight between security forces and the rebels continued overnight, resulting in the deaths of at least 27 militants. The BLA, which has been engaged in an armed separatist movement, claimed responsibility and demanded the release of Baloch political prisoners and "forcibly disappeared persons" within 48 hours. Security forces have intensified operations in the mountainous region to regain full control of the hijacked train.

Survivors described the ordeal as terrifying, with many forced to walk for hours to escape. "I can't find the words to describe how we managed to escape. It was terrifying," said Muhammad Bilal, one of the freed hostages. A makeshift hospital has been set up in Mach to provide medical assistance to the rescued passengers.

Pakistan’s railway authorities confirmed that the Jaffar Express was targeted while traveling on a route that had recently resumed operations after a month-long suspension. Explosives were reportedly used to halt the train before armed rebels boarded. The incident has led to increased security at railway stations and along key transit routes in the region.

The BLA has carried out multiple attacks in Balochistan in recent years, targeting infrastructure and security forces. The Pakistani government has vowed a strong response to the attack, with security operations still ongoing. Authorities are working to determine the exact number of remaining hostages and ensure their safe release.