A train hijacking incident took place in Pakistan’s Balochistan on Tuesday, a region that has long been affected by terrorism. Baloch militants seized control of the Jaffer Express, which was carrying 440 passengers.
While the Pakistani army has claimed that all hostages were freed and the operation has been concluded, the Balochistan Liberation Army has stated that many Pakistani soldiers are still in their custody. This incident has drawn global attention to Pakistan.
Speaking about the train hijacking, Khurshid Ahmed, the Information Secretary of the Baloch Human Rights Council in London, expressed concern over the event, stating that it demonstrates Pakistan's growing weakness. Meanwhile, Baloch freedom fighters in Balochistan are becoming stronger.
Khurshid Ahmed also praised the militants, saying that despite the harsh circumstances, the Baloch freedom fighters followed human rights standards and allowed the elderly, women and families to return to Quetta.
"We are witnessing Baloch freedom fighters, especially the BLA, attacking Pakistan-China projects in Balochistan. The BLA is defending its homeland. The situation in Balochistan demands that India and Western powers should support the Baloch national struggle," he said.
The militants took several military personnel hostage and demanded the release of missing Baloch individuals. He added that such incidents are unlikely to stop in the future.
Muhammad Kasif, the railway controller, reported that armed individuals had stopped the nine-carriage train at tunnel number 8. According to Pakistan Railways, there are 17 tunnels on this railway line, and due to the rugged terrain, trains often run at slow speeds. Pakistan’s Interior Minister, Mohsin Naqvi, condemned the incident, stating, "The monsters who shot at innocent passengers do not deserve any leniency."
Notably, this rail section has frequently been targeted by Baloch militants using rockets or remote-controlled bombs, with most attacks claimed by the BLA (Baloch Liberation Army).
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In October, Pakistan Railways had resumed services between Quetta and Peshawar after more than a month, marking a rare revival. In the past year, terrorist attacks have increased in Balochistan. In November 2024, a suicide bombing at the Quetta railway station killed 26 people and injured 62 others.