Militants Attack Jaffar Express in Balochistan, Six Soldiers Killed, Over 450 Hostages Taken

Militants Attack Jaffar Express in Balochistan, Six Soldiers Killed, Over 450 Hostages Taken

Islamabad, Pakistan – A deadly militant attack on the Peshawar-Quetta Jaffar Express in Balochistan’s Mach area has resulted in the deaths of at least six military personnel, while more than 450 passengers have been taken hostage, according to media reports.

The train, which was traveling from Quetta to Peshawar, came under heavy fire from armed militants, leading to its derailment. Government spokesperson Shahid Rind confirmed the attack, stating that the assailants had seized control of the train, holding passengers, including women and children, as hostages.

The Baloch Liberation Army (BLA), a separatist group active in the region, has claimed responsibility for the attack. In a statement, the BLA warned that any military retaliation would escalate the situation further.

Security forces have been deployed to the area, and authorities are assessing the situation. This incident underscores the persistent security threats in Balochistan, a province plagued by insurgencies and separatist movements for decades.

As the crisis unfolds, Pakistan’s government faces mounting pressure to address the security challenges and ensure the safe rescue of the hostages.

newsbabaonline.com