Passengers onboard the Jaffar Express in Balochistan, Pakistan, have shared chilling accounts of the train hijack that unfolded on Tuesday.

“We held our breath throughout the firing, not knowing what would happen next,” said Ishaq Noor, who was onboard during the attack. Many described the scene as “doomsday”, filled with fear and chaos.

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The train, carrying 400 passengers from Quetta to Peshawar, was attacked by the Balochistan Liberation Army (BLA), a militant group. Several passengers were taken hostage as security forces launched a rescue operation.

Rescue Efforts and Hostage Situation

According to the Pakistan military, 190 passengers have been freed, while 27 militants have been killed in the ongoing operation. However, the BLA has warned of severe consequences if further attempts are made to rescue the remaining hostages.

Security officials report that some militants have taken hostages to a mountainous area, making the rescue operation more challenging.

Eyewitness Accounts of Fear and Chaos

Passengers recall terrifying moments inside the train as gunfire erupted.

  • Muhammad Ashraf, traveling with his family, described the ordeal:
    “There was a lot of fear among the passengers. It felt like doomsday.”
    He and his wife tried to protect their child by shielding him from bullets.
  • Mushtaq Muhammad, another passenger, recalled how the attackers communicated in Balochi, with their leader instructing them to keep a close watch on security personnel onboard.
    “This attack was unforgettable,” he said.

Militants Release Some Hostages

Starting Tuesday evening, the militants began releasing certain hostages, including:
✅ Women
✅ Children
✅ Elderly passengers
✅ Some Balochistan residents

Ongoing Concerns and Human Rights Appeal

On Wednesday, the BBC witnessed wooden coffins being loaded at the Quetta railway station. An official stated that they were prepared for possible casualties.

The Human Rights Commission of Pakistan (HRCP) expressed grave concern over the incident.

“We urge all stakeholders to find a peaceful, political solution to the issues in Balochistan,” the HRCP stated on X (formerly Twitter).

Security Alert as Situation Develops

Authorities remain on high alert as the rescue operation continues. The hijacking has raised serious security concerns in Balochistan, where militancy has been a long-standing issue.