Militants Hijack Jaffar Express in Balochistan
On March 11, 2025, the Jaffar Express, carrying approximately 450 passengers, was en route from Quetta to Peshawar. Baloch Liberation Army (BLA) militants attacked the train in Balochistan’s Bolan district. The attackers used explosives to derail the train near the mountainous regions of Gudalar and Piru Kunri, about 160 kilometers from Quetta. They then took control of the train and held hundreds of passengers hostage.
BLA Claims Responsibility for the Attack
The BLA, a separatist group demanding greater autonomy for Balochistan, claimed responsibility for the hijacking. They demanded the release of Baloch political prisoners and threatened to execute hostages if their demands were not met. This was the first instance of a passenger train hijacking by the BLA, marking a dangerous escalation in their tactics.
Pakistan Army Launches Rescue Operation
The Pakistan Army swiftly responded with a large-scale rescue operation. Security forces faced challenges due to the difficult terrain and the militants’ use of hostages as human shields. Despite these obstacles, the operation was executed with precision, resulting in the elimination of all 33 militants and the rescue of 346 hostages. However, 21 passengers lost their lives during the ordeal.
Army Confirms Successful Operation
Lieutenant General Ahmad Sharif, the Army spokesperson, confirmed the operation’s success. He stated that all terrorists had been neutralized and the passengers rescued safely. The military’s coordinated efforts ensured the crisis ended without further escalation.
Pakistan PM Condemns the Attack
Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif expressed deep sorrow over the incident. He condemned the attack as a heinous act and offered condolences to the victims’ families. He also praised the security forces for their bravery and reaffirmed Pakistan’s commitment to fighting terrorism.
BLA’s Growing Insurgency in Balochistan
The BLA has a history of attacking security forces and infrastructure in Balochistan, a region rich in natural resources but plagued by unrest. The group accuses the Pakistani government of exploiting the province’s resources without benefiting the local population. The hijacking of the Jaffar Express represents a severe escalation in their insurgency.
International Reactions and Security Measures
The attack has drawn global attention to the ongoing conflict in Balochistan. Analysts emphasize the need for a comprehensive approach to address Baloch grievances. In response to the attack, Pakistan has heightened security across its railway network to prevent similar incidents.
Pakistan faces a critical moment
The successful resolution of the Jaffar Express hijacking highlights the Pakistan Army’s ability to handle complex security threats. However, it also underscores the ongoing dangers posed by insurgent groups like the BLA. Addressing the root causes of such conflicts remains a crucial challenge for Pakistan’s leadership.
