A deadly hostage crisis in southwestern Pakistan has ended after security forces freed 346 passengers from a train seized by rebels, an army official confirmed on Wednesday. The attack, which occurred in a remote frontier district of Balochistan province, resulted in the deaths of 28 soldiers, including 27 off-duty personnel who were passengers on the train.
Army Confirms Casualties and Rebel Deaths
“346 hostages were freed and over 30 terrorists were killed during the operation,” an army official told AFP. The official further confirmed that one soldier was killed during the military’s rescue operation.
WATCH: A blast and a train hijack; BLA releases video clip showing how they halted Jaffar Express in Balochistan
The siege began on Tuesday afternoon when a train carrying over 450 passengers was ambushed by a rebel group. The Balochistan Liberation Army (BLA) swiftly claimed responsibility, releasing a video that showed an explosion on the railway track, followed by heavily armed militants storming the carriages from mountainous hiding spots.
BLA’s Escalating Insurgency
The BLA, a separatist group, has intensified attacks in recent months, primarily targeting security forces and individuals from outside Balochistan. The group accuses non-local ethnic groups and the Pakistani state of exploiting the province’s rich natural resources.
Also Read: Uprising, struggle for independence, uptick in insurgency | All you need to know about Balochistan Liberation Army
Tuesday’s brazen attack underscores the escalating violence in the region and the persistent security challenges faced by Pakistan’s government in Balochistan. Authorities have vowed to strengthen counter-terrorism efforts to prevent future assaults.
The successful rescue of the hostages marks a major counterinsurgency victory, but the tragic loss of 28 soldiers highlights the ongoing instability in the region.
BLA claims to have hostages
While Pakistan army has released statement to freeing all the hostages the Balochistan Liberation Army (BLA) claims to have hostages which is creating a sense of confusion among the people.
