On March 11, 2025, the train under way from Quetta to Peshawar was attacked, leading to a severe hostage scenario. The Baloch Liberation Army (BLA) has claimed responsibility for seizing the Jaffar Express passenger train in Balochistan region of Pakistan in a major security issue.
Reports state that among security staff, the insurgents have kidnapped over one hundred passengers. The attack consisted of detonating explosives on the railroad track and running security personnel across the train under gunfire. Demanding a prisoner swap, the BLA has given a 48-hour ultimatum; failure to comply could lead to the train’s destruction and captives execution.
Rescue operations are currently underway. Although the Pakistan Army clueless on how to fight the Baloch fighters and rescue over 100 abducted Pakistani soldiers. Still, the destiny of the surviving hostages is unknown. Rescue attempts are hampered by the difficult topography and inadequate network coverage in the area.
The most recent statement released by BLA indicates thirty Pakistani military personnel have died. 48-hour ultimatum directed toward prisoner trade. For the previous eight hours, BLA maintained all captives and maintained complete control of the train. These 214 hostages are regarded as prisoners of war under the command of war, and BLA is ready for a prisoner exchange. Baloch political prisoners, forcibly vanished individuals, and national resistance activists are quickly and unconditionally released within 48 hours by the occupying state of Pakistan, says Jayend Baloch, a spokesperson of BLA.
This event emphasizes the continuous separatist violence in Balochistan, a territory seeing growing militant activity especially in response to the Taliban’s ascent to prominence in Afghanistan. The BLA has past focused on Chinese investments as well as Pakistani security forces and infrastructure projects in the vicinity.
Also Read, Occupation Of Balochistan: Betrayal Lest We Forget
Authorities are on great alert, and apparently negotiations are under way to guarantee the safe release of the hostages. The matter is still under flux since security personnel are ready for possible escalation. Ever since the Baloch train kidnapping and death of Pakistani forces, Quetta Railway Station has been closed by Pakistani authorities.
Balochistan’s Divisional Superintendent of Railways verified ten deaths, including nine Pakistani soldiers on holiday and the driver. Jaffar Express had 235 passengers in economy, 41 AC lower, 24 AC business, and six AC sleeper. More dead.
