Six fatalities and over 100 hostages as armed assailants strike train in Balochistan, Pakistan
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Synopsis
A tragic attack on the Jaffar Express in Balochistan, Pakistan, resulted in six deaths and over 100 hostages. The Baloch Liberation Army claimed responsibility, leading to a significant rescue operation.
Key Takeaways
- Attack on Jaffar Express train in Balochistan
- Confirmed fatalities: six
- Hostages taken: over 100
- Militant group responsible: BLA
- Ongoing rescue operation
Islamabad, March 11 (NationPress) A passenger train in Pakistan's Balochistan province was subjected to a significant assault on Tuesday, resulting in the train derailing and providing the attackers ample opportunity to take more than 100 passengers hostage.
According to the latest updates, at least six individuals have been confirmed dead, with numerous others sustaining injuries during this terror incident.
The assault targeted the Jaffar Express passenger train as it was traversing the Ab-e-Ghum region of Mach Town in the Kachhi district (previously known as Bolan District) of Balochistan.
Reports indicate that approximately six armed attackers opened fire on the train. The intense gunfire derailed the train, creating chaos among the passengers.
The Baloch Liberation Army (BLA), a militant group based in Pakistan, has taken responsibility for the strike, asserting that over 100 passengers have been taken captive.
"The Baloch Liberation Army executed a strategic operation in Mashkaf, Dhadar, Bolan, commandeering the Jaffar Express by derailing it. During the ensuing conflict, six military personnel lost their lives while more than 100 passengers have been taken into BLA custody," stated a release from the BLA.
This incident marks one of the most significant attacks by the BLA in recent times. The BLA's claim of seizing 100 hostages, mainly security personnel, has not yet been corroborated by security forces. A rescue operation is currently underway to eliminate the attackers and secure the release of the hostages.
Local media have reported that railway officials have implemented emergency measures, with nearby hospitals activated and ambulances dispatched from Sibi.
"Security forces have reportedly encircled the area surrounding the Mach mountains, known for its challenging terrain. Additional convoys have been deployed to aid in the operation. Sources further suggest that explosives may have been utilized to damage the railway tracks prior to the shooting, with the train's driver among those critically injured. The assailants have continued to sporadically fire as efforts to rescue the hostages and secure the passengers persist," reported the Express Tribune.
