A security officer stands watch near a train carrying empty coffins. These coffins are being sent to Bolan, where separatist militants attacked a passenger train. The scene unfolds at a railway station in Quetta, Pakistan, on March 12, 2025. REUTERS
A dramatic train hijacking in southwest Pakistan came to an end on Thursday when security forces eliminated all 33 militants involved. The hostages, who had been held for over a day, finally arrived safely in Quetta, bringing relief to their families and the nation.
The attackers, belonging to the Baloch Liberation Army (BLA), ambushed the Jaffar Express while it was traveling from Quetta to Peshawar. They blew up parts of the railway track and opened fire on the train, seizing several passengers. The BLA, one of the most active separatist groups in the region, claimed responsibility for the assault, which resulted in the deaths of 21 hostages and four security personnel.
Amjad, the train driver, shared his terrifying experience. "The attackers smashed the windows to get inside. They thought we were dead, so they left," he said. He had immediately dropped to the engine floor when the shooting began and remained hidden for 27 hours until security forces arrived.
Footage from Quetta railway station showed medical teams treating the rescued passengers. One of the survivors expressed deep gratitude, stating, "If the army had not come today, the attackers would have executed all of us."
The BLA had issued an ultimatum, demanding the release of Baloch political prisoners and activists within 48 hours. They threatened to start executing hostages if their demands were not met. The group has long accused the government of exploiting Balochistan's mineral wealth while depriving local communities of their fair share.
The military launched an operation on Wednesday, successfully storming the hijacked train and neutralizing the attackers. The swift action prevented further loss of life and restored control over the situation.
Pakistan’s Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif is expected to visit the region following the incident. He had condemned the attack earlier, stating, "Such cowardly acts will not shake Pakistan’s resolve for peace."
