Pakistan Train Hijack: Militants Hold Passengers Hostage Amidst Rescue Operation

Pakistan Train Hijack: Militants Hold Hostages as Rescue Efforts Continue

A terrifying situation unfolded in Pakistan when armed militants hijacked a passenger train, holding hundreds of people hostage. As security forces fight to regain control, reports confirm that militants wearing explosive vests are sitting next to the hostages, making the operation extremely risky. Here’s everything you need to know about the ongoing crisis.

What Happened?

• The Jaffar Express, carrying around 450 passengers, was attacked by militants linked to the Baloch Liberation Army (BLA) on Tuesday.
• The train was stopped in a tunnel in the Bolan region of Balochistan.
• The militants demanded the release of jailed insurgents in exchange for the hostages.

Current Situation: Hostages and Casualties

• Security forces have managed to kill 30 militants so far.
• 190 passengers have been rescued, but 250 are still held hostage.
• Helicopters are aiding ground troops in the rugged terrain.
• Injured passengers are being treated in hospitals in Mach district.
• Reports suggest that some hostages have been taken into the mountains.

Hostages at Gunpoint: Inside the Train

Passengers onboard describe a scene of sheer horror. Muhammad Ashraf, a survivor, said:

“Some passengers died in the attack, including the train driver.”

Security sources revealed that suicide bombers are sitting next to hostages, making the situation highly sensitive.

One militant was heard saying on Telegram:

“Comrades are shedding their blood for you, for this motherland.”

Pakistan’s Response: How Authorities Are Acting

• Authorities are proceeding with extreme caution due to the presence of women and children.
• The army and special forces are engaged in a continuous battle with the militants.
• Reports say that 16 militants have been killed, and 104 hostages have been freed in the latest rescue attempts.

Scenes of Despair: Eyewitness Accounts

Passengers described the terrifying experience of being held at gunpoint. Ishaq Noor, a survivor, said:

“We held our breath throughout the firing, not knowing what would happen next.”

Another passenger, Mushtaq Muhammad, recalled:

“The attackers were speaking in Balochi and kept a close eye on security personnel.”

Families of hostages are desperately waiting for news while security officials work to free the remaining passengers.

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Empty Coffins at the Station: What’s Next?

A Reuters journalist at Quetta railway station saw nearly 100 empty coffins being prepared. This has fueled fears of further casualties.

Meanwhile, the Human Rights Commission of Pakistan has expressed deep concern, urging authorities to find a peaceful solution.

The Road Ahead

The situation remains tense, with the military focusing on securing the hostages safely. The BLA has threatened “severe consequences” if more rescue attempts are made. The next few hours will be crucial as authorities try to bring an end to this crisis without further loss of innocent lives.

Stay tuned for more updates.