Balochistan train attack over, some hostages killed, say Pakistani officials

Quetta (Pakistan): Pakistani authorities on Wednesday confirmed that an insurgent attack on a passenger train in Balochistan had ended after a prolonged standoff, with over 50 insurgents killed. Some hostages lost their lives during the crisis.

Balochistan province Chief Minister Sarfraz Bugti informed the provincial assembly, stating, “We people have also been martyred, but we will share details later.”

Security officials reported that more than 300 hostages were successfully rescued after an intense operation. However, they did not disclose how many hostages were killed. The officials, who spoke on condition of anonymity as they were not authorised to speak to the media.

Authorities confirmed that the rescued hostages included women and children. However, an unspecified number of security personnel lost their lives, according to security officials.

The Jafer Express, which was travelling from Quetta to Peshawar, came under attack when insurgents detonated explosives on the tracks. The blast halted the train’s engine and nine coaches while it was partially inside a tunnel. The train was carrying approximately 450 passengers.

The separatist Baloch Liberation Army claimed responsibility. Spokesman Jeeyand Baloch had said the group was ready to free passengers if authorities agree to release jailed militants. There was no comment on that from the government, which has rejected such demands in the past. 

The BLA frequently targets Pakistani security forces and has previously carried out attacks on civilians, including Chinese nationals working on multibillion-dollar projects linked to the China-Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC).

Pakistan hosts thousands of Chinese workers engaged in major infrastructure projects, including ports and airports in Balochistan. Chinese foreign ministry spokeswoman Mao Ning said her country "will continue to firmly support Pakistan in advancing its counterterrorism efforts.”

AP