Militants’ Attack on Train Leads to Rescue Operation in Balochistan, Casualties Reported
A complex hostage rescue mission is underway in southwestern Pakistan after militants hijacked the Jaffar Express, taking dozens of passengers captive. The situation was further complicated when suicide bombers were found seated next to hostages.
On March 11, 2025, approximately 50 separatist insurgents targeted the train, which was travelling through Balochistan. They exploded a railway track and launched rockets at the train, which had over 400 passengers on board, according to security sources. A video posted by the militants depicted the attack, with the train seen travelling along a barren pass before being struck by an explosion. The attackers were also shown abducting passengers after the train halted outside a tunnel.
The Baloch Liberation Army (BLA) claimed responsibility for the hijacking, stating that it was holding 214 hostages, though only 155 passengers have been rescued so far. The militants have threatened to execute hostages unless their demands—such as the release of Baloch political prisoners—are met within 48 hours.
While the hijacking resulted in several fatalities, including the death of the train’s driver, the military has launched a large-scale rescue operation, deploying hundreds of troops and helicopters to the remote mountainous region. Initial reports indicate that 27 BLA militants have been killed in the operation.
Among the rescued passengers, a woman pleaded with officials to bring back her son, who remained among the hostages. Families of the victims have expressed their anguish, with a visible presence of coffins at Quetta railway station as the rescue continues.
In response to the crisis, Pakistan Railways has suspended all train services from Punjab and Sindh to Balochistan until the area is deemed safe. The government has vowed to enhance security measures in the region to prevent further incidents.
