Train hijacked in Pakistan: 50 hostages killed in BLA attack
Fighters from the Balochistan Liberation Army hijacked a train in Pakistan, claiming responsibility for killing 50 hostages. While the government confirms casualties, it hasn't provided an exact number.
Dramatic hostage situation
The government in Islamabad stated that the hostage rescue operation had reached a crucial stage. The statement emphasized that the efforts were significantly obstructed by the potential presence of suicide bombers among the attackers. It was also reported that hostages, including women and children, were being used as human shields.
The BLA, one of the Baloch's largest separatist organizations, demanded the release of all political prisoners and activists from this ethnic group within 48 hours. If their demands are not met, they threatened to kill more hostages.
As the train traveling from Quetta to Peshawar entered a tunnel, it was ambushed by attackers who opened fire and detonated explosives, damaging the tracks and bringing the train to a halt. According to Pakistani authorities, security forces and military personnel arrived at the scene, leading to an exchange of gunfire in which approximately 30 assailants were reportedly killed.
The authorities managed to free approximately 190 of the 425 passengers. Among the hostages were representatives of various ethnic groups and security service officers.
Balochistan, Pakistan's poorest province, has been the site of separatist struggles for years. The Baloch community feels marginalized in public life and aims to detach the region from Pakistan. This conflict has persisted for several decades, and the region's mineral wealth only heightens the tensions.
