Pakistan Train Hijacking: Hostages Killed in Balochistan as Militants Seize Jaffar Express
Balochistan, Pakistan – March 12, 2025: Separatist militants from the Baloch Liberation Army (BLA) hijacked a passenger train in Pakistan’s Balochistan province, resulting in hostages being killed. The Jaffar Express, carrying over 400 passengers, was attacked as it entered a tunnel in Bolan district.
Baloch Liberation Army Claims Responsibility for Attack
The BLA claimed responsibility, stating they had killed 50 passengers. However, Pakistani authorities have not confirmed the exact death toll.
We have also lost people, but we will share details later, said Sarfraz Bugti, the Chief Minister of Balochistan.
After an intense day-long standoff, Pakistani security forces killed over 50 militants and ended the insurgent attack, according to officials.
How the Train Hijacking Unfolded
The Jaffar Express, traveling 1,000 miles from Quetta to Peshawar, was packed with 425 people, including women and children. The attack began when militants:
Hijacked the train inside a tunnel in Mashkaf
Blew up the railway tracks, trapping the train
Killed the train driver with a rocket-propelled grenade (RPG)
Exchanged heavy gunfire with security forces
Freed hostages described the terror inside the train:
Gunfire was coming from everywhere, said survivor Bashir Yousaf.
Everyone was crying, passengers were shouting, trying to save their lives.
Over 300 Hostages Rescued by Pakistani Security Forces
Despite the chaos, security forces managed to rescue more than 300 hostages. Survivors recounted how militants forced them off the train, warning them not to look back.
They told us to get down or they would shoot, said Noor Muhammad, a passenger traveling with his wife.
Pakistan Condemns the Attack, Vows Action Against Militants
Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif condemned the attack, stating security forces were actively “repelling the terrorists.”
Interior Minister Mohsin Naqvi labeled the BLA militants as “enemies of Pakistan.”
BLA’s Demands and Threats
The BLA had demanded the release of Baloch political prisoners, activists, and missing persons within 48 hours, threatening to execute hostages if their demands were not met.
What’s Next? Security Measures and Investigations Underway
The Pakistan government is ramping up counterterrorism efforts in Balochistan, a province frequently targeted by insurgent groups. The attack highlights the ongoing security challenges in the region, with officials promising swift action against militants.
