Islamabad: At least six people lost their lives, and more than 100 passengers were taken hostage when armed men launched a major attack on a passenger train in Pakistan's Balochistan province on Tuesday.

The Jaffar Express was targeted while passing through the Ab-e-Ghum area of Mach Town in Kachhi district (formerly Bolan District). Reports indicate that around six heavily armed militants opened fire on the train, forcing it off the tracks and causing widespread panic among passengers.

Pakistan-based militant group Baloch Liberation Army (BLA) has claimed responsibility for the attack. In a statement, the group declared, "The Baloch Liberation Army has carried out a strategic operation in Mashkaf, Dhadar, Bolan, seizing control of the Jaffar Express by derailing it. During the resistance, six military personnel were killed while over 100 passengers were taken into the BLA custody."

This incident marks one of the most major attacks carried out by the BLA in recent times. However, security forces have not yet confirmed the group’s claim regarding the hostages, many of whom are reportedly security personnel. A rescue operation is currently underway to eliminate the attackers and secure the safe release of those held captive.

According to local media reports, emergency protocols have been activated by railway authorities, and medical facilities in nearby hospitals have been placed on high alert. Ambulances have also been dispatched from Sibi to provide immediate aid to the injured.

Security forces have surrounded the Mach mountains, an area known for its rugged and challenging terrain. Additional convoys have been deployed to reinforce the ongoing operation. Express Tribune quoted sources stating that explosives may have been used to damage the railway tracks before the gunmen opened fire. Among the seriously injured is the train’s driver.

The attackers continue to fire sporadically as security personnel work to neutralise the threat and rescue the hostages.

IANS