Passenger train hijacked in Balochistan; 6 killed, 100s taken hostage
What's the story
A passenger train traveling from Quetta to Peshawar, Pakistan, came under attack by separatist militants on Tuesday.
The Jaffar Express, with around 400 passengers in nine bogies, was fired upon while en route, prompting the provincial government to issue orders to local authorities to take "emergency measures."
The Baloch Liberation Army (BLA) has claimed responsibility for the Jaffar Express attack. They also alleged that they have killed six people, including security forces personnel and taken hundreds as hostages.
Hostage situation
BLA claims responsibility for attack, takes hostages
"Our freedom fighters have blown up the railway track, forcing the Jaffar Express to come to a halt. The fighters swiftly took control of the train, holding all passengers hostage," the group stated in a statement.
"If the occupying forces attempt any military operation, the consequences will be severe. All hundreds of hostages will be executed, and the responsibility for this bloodshed will lie solely with the occupying forces," they warned.
Response measures
Emergency measures implemented, security forces respond
Security forces have arrived at the location of the incident in the Mushqaf area of the Bolan district in Balochistan.
The provincial government has enforced emergency measures and mobilized all institutions to address the situation.
Shahid Rind, the government spokesperson, said, "All institutions have been mobilized to deal with the situation," signaling a coordinated response to this crisis.
Why factor
Group seeks independence for Balochistan
The group seeks independence for Balochistan.
It is the biggest of numerous ethnic insurgent groups that have fought the South Asian country's government for decades, claiming that it unfairly exploits Balochistan's abundant gas and mineral riches.
In the past, the group has carried out attacks against the government, army, and Chinese interests, pressing demands for a share in mineral-rich resources.
The province is home to major mining projects, such as Reko Diq, which is run by Barrick Gold ABX.