Pakistani security forces launched a counter-operation after Baloch militants hijacked a passenger train in Balochistan on Tuesday. As a result, they killed at least 16 separatists, according to security officials.
Security Forces Rescue Over 100 Passengers
The Jaffar Express was traveling from Quetta to Peshawar with around 400 passengers. Suddenly, armed men stopped the train near Gudalar and Piru Kunri in the afternoon. Shortly after, the Balochistan Liberation Army (BLA) claimed responsibility for the attack.
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Meanwhile, security forces engaged the militants in a fierce gunfight. Eventually, they rescued 104 passengers, including women and children. A security source confirmed, “In the gun battle, which is still ongoing, 16 militants have been killed and many others injured.” However, officials have not confirmed any casualties among the security forces.
Militants Take Hostages to the Mountains
Even though security forces secured many passengers, some militants managed to escape. In the process, they took hostages into the nearby mountains. Consequently, security forces launched a chase in the dark. The rescued passengers—58 men, 31 women, and 15 children—were later sent to Mach by another train.
A security source explained, “The militants have split into small groups to escape, but security forces have surrounded the tunnel. The remaining passengers will be rescued soon.”
Ongoing Rescue Efforts
Earlier, officials confirmed that security forces had rescued 80 passengers. These included 43 men, 26 women, and 11 children. Furthermore, Balochistan government spokesperson Shahid Rind said military troops reached the tunnel soon after railway authorities raised the alarm.
Heavy Gunfire and Explosions Reported
At the same time, local media reported intense firing and explosions near the tunnel. Consequently, Rind confirmed that rescue teams rushed to the scene after reports of heavy gunfire.
Additionally, district police officer Rana Muhammad Dilawar said security forces had surrounded the area. However, reports suggested that some women and children were still held hostage. He also mentioned that four to five government officials were on board the train.
Train Services Recently Resumed
Previously, Pakistan Railways had resumed train services between Quetta and Peshawar after a suspension of over a month and a half. In November, a suicide bombing at Quetta railway station killed 26 people and injured 62. As a result, authorities temporarily halted several train services.
