Pakistani security forces have successfully rescued 190 train passengers from separatist militants in Balochistan. The operation, now in its second day, faced delays due to the presence of suicide bombers among the attackers. Authorities had to proceed with extreme caution.
Militants Used Suicide Bombers as Shields
Officials confirmed that the militants placed suicide bombers among the hostages. This tactic made the rescue mission highly sensitive. "Due to the presence of women and children with suicide bombers, extreme caution is being exercised," sources told AFP. Despite the risks, security forces managed to kill 30 militants.
BLA Hijacked the Train and Issued Demands
The Baloch Liberation Army (BLA), a separatist group, hijacked the train as it entered a tunnel in Bolan district. The armed insurgents surrounded passengers and demanded the release of jailed militants. However, the government refused to negotiate with them, sticking to its strict policy against dealing with militant groups.
Security Forces Fought Intense Battles
Pakistani forces engaged in heavy combat with the militants. They deployed helicopters to assist ground troops in the rugged terrain. Officials described the attack as terrorism. So far, security forces have rescued over 190 of the 450 passengers. The operation is ongoing.
BLA's First Train Hijacking
This was the first time the BLA successfully hijacked a train. In the past, the group attacked security forces, infrastructure, and even civilians, including Chinese nationals involved in the China-Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC).
China condemned the attack. Foreign Ministry spokeswoman Mao Ning reaffirmed Beijing’s support for Pakistan’s counter-terrorism efforts. She stressed China's commitment to helping Pakistan fight militant threats.
How the Attack Happened
Militants used explosives to damage the train tracks, forcing it to stop. The blast destroyed the engine and nine coaches. The attackers then opened fire, critically injuring the train’s driver. They also attacked security personnel onboard.
Rescued passengers, including women and children, were transported to their hometowns or hospitals in Mach district and Quetta, 100 kilometers away. The train had been traveling from Quetta to Peshawar when the militants struck.
Balochistan: A Region of Unrest
Balochistan, rich in natural resources, has long been a hotspot for separatist movements. Insurgent groups, especially the BLA, demand greater autonomy and a larger share of the region’s wealth. The group often targets security forces and infrastructure projects linked to China’s Belt and Road Initiative.
A Sign of Ongoing Conflict
This attack highlights the growing security challenges in Balochistan. Pakistani forces continue their fight against separatist militants, but the conflict remains unresolved. The rescue mission may have succeeded, but the insurgency in the region shows no signs of ending.