On a scorching day of March 11, 2025, Pakistan faced a grave security crisis when separatist militants from the Baloch Liberation Army (BLA) hijacked the Jaffar Express, a passenger train carrying over 400 individuals, in the southwestern province of Balochistan. The train, enroute from Quetta to Peshawar, was attacked at about 1 pm between Pehro Kunri and Gadalar in the Bolan area.
How did The Hijacking Incident occur?
The militants executed a coordinated assault by detonating explosives on the railway tracks, causing the train to derail and trapped within a tunnel. They then opened fire, resulting in the death of the train's driver and several passengers. Reports indicate that at least 10 people were killed during the initial attack. Following the derailment, the BLA militants took approximately 214 passengers hostage, including an alleged military personnel.
Demands and Threats made?
The BLA issued a 48-hour ultimatum, demanding the release of Baloch political prisoners, activists, and individuals who had disappeared under mysterious circumstances. They threatened to execute the hostages and destroy the train if their demands were not met.
How are the Rescue Operations going?
The Pakistani security forces launched a rescue operation, deploying hundreds of troops and helicopters to the region. The operation faced significant challenges, including the militants' use of suicide bombers positioned near the hostages, complicating rescue efforts. Despite these obstacles, security forces managed to rescue 155 passengers and reportedly killed 27 militants during intense altercations.
What exactly is the Baloch Liberation Army (BLA)?
The BLA is an ethnic armed separatist group that has been active in Balochistan for decades, seeking independence for the people of Baloch. The group has a history of targeting security forces and civilians, accusing the Pakistani government of exploiting the region's natural resources without benefiting the local population. They have also targeted Chinese workers involved in projects in the province, opposing foreign investments they believe marginalize the Baloch community.
Reaction of the Government and International Allies:
Pakistani Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif condemned the attack, labeling it an act of terrorism. The government has historically been reluctant to negotiate with militant groups, and there has been no official response to the BLA's demands. The incident has drawn international condemnation, with countries like China, which has significant investments in the region through its Belt and Road Initiative, expressing concern over the escalating violence.
What does this attack remind us of?
This hijacking is definitely a reminiscent of the past attacks on railway systems in Pakistan. Notably, during the partition of India in 1947, there were several massacres targeting trains carrying refugees. For instance, the 1947 Kamoke train massacre resulted in the deaths of hundreds of Hindu and Sikh refugees. More recently, in November 2024, a suicide bombing at Quetta railway station killed at least 27 people, underscoring the persistent threats to Pakistan's railway infrastructure.
How does the current situation look like?
As of now, rescue operations are ongoing, with efforts focused on securing the release of the remaining hostages and neutralizing the militant threat. The incident has heightened concerns about the security situation in Balochistan and the effectiveness of counterinsurgency measures. The Pakistani government faces the dual challenge of first addressing the immediate crisis and then tackling the underlying issues fueling the insurgency, including political grievances and demands for greater autonomy.
