In a harrowing incident on the Jaffar Express, a group of 86 passengers, including women and children, successfully escaped after attackers opened fire on the train. The attack, attributed to the Baloch Liberation Army (BLA), occurred as the train traveled from Quetta to Peshawar. Reports of "intense firing" sent passengers into a panic, with some hiding under seats for safety. The incident unfolded in the remote Sibi district of Balochistan, a region rich in natural resources but lacking development.
The BLA, known for its decades-long insurgency for independence, launched the assault by reportedly bombing the train track before storming the train. The group has a history of targeting infrastructure and has been designated a terrorist organization by Pakistan and several Western countries. During the attack, the militants threatened to kill hostages if their demand for the release of Baloch political prisoners was not met within 48 hours.
Muhammad Bilal, one of the passengers, recounted the ordeal, stating:
"I can't find the words to describe how we managed to escape. It was terrifying" – Muhammad Bilal
Amidst the chaos, a 49-year-old relative described how passengers "began hiding under the seats in panic." Despite the threat, 86 passengers managed to disembark and walk to the nearest railway station, Panir. Among those who escaped were 17 injured individuals who have since been admitted to hospital for treatment.
Allahditta, another passenger, was released due to his heart condition. Meanwhile, local media reported that at least 16 militants were killed and over 100 passengers were freed by Wednesday morning. The attackers had issued a warning of "severe consequences" if rescue efforts were made for those they were holding.
A senior army official confirmed that more than 100 army personnel were onboard the train from Quetta. The communication challenges in the area, exacerbated by the lack of internet and mobile network coverage, made coordination difficult for authorities.
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