Pakistan train hijack update: In a shocking development, the Balochistan Liberation Army claimed to have taken all passengers travelling on Jaffar Express hostage on Tuesday. According to the statement released by the US-designated terror organisation, at least 30 military personnel were killed and 214 security personnel were held hostage. In its latest statement, it demanded the release of prisoners in exchange for hostages. 

As per local media reports, more than 500 passengers were travelling on the ill-fated train, and the driver of the train also received injury. BLA warned that if the Pakistani forces attempted any military operation, "the consequences will be severe and all hundreds of hostages will be executed."

Meanwhile, Controller Railways Muhammad Kashif said that the train, comprising nine coaches, had around 500 passengers on board, Dawn reported. “The train was stopped by armed men in Tunnel No 8. Efforts are being made to contact the passengers and staff,” the controller said.

The BLA has stated that the hostages include active-duty members of the Pakistani Army, Police, Inter-Services Intelligence (ISI), and Anti-Terrorism Force (ATF), who were traveling while on leave. The BLA has released civilian passengers—specifically women, children, the elderly, and Baloch individuals—ensuring their safe departure with a secure passage.

The BLA has issued a stern warning that continued military intervention will result in the execution of all remaining hostages. The operation is under the command of the BLA’s Majeed Brigade, Special Tactical Operations Squad (STOS), Fatah Squad, and Zirab Unit, who are prepared to respond decisively to any military escalation.

Heavy gunfire 

Balochistan government spokesperson Shahid Rind reported, "There have been accounts of heavy gunfire targeting a Jaffar Express train travelling from Quetta to Peshawar, occurring between Peerokanri and Gadalar." 

(Statement released by BLA)

Rind noted that early reports suggest the event might be a potential terrorist attack. According to the statement, an emergency has been declared at Sibi hospital, with ambulances and security forces dispatched to the incident location. However, spokesperson Shahid Rind noted that authorities were encountering challenges accessing the site due to the rugged, rocky terrain.

Biggest terror attack

The statement also mentioned that the railway department deployed additional trains to the area to assist with rescue efforts while security forces were en route to the scene. "The exact nature of the incident and the potential for it being a terrorist attack are currently under investigation," Rind further stated.