Pakistani security forces are in a deadly standoff with armed militants who seized a passenger train, holding hundreds hostage in a remote mountainous area in the country’s southwest. The Baloch Liberation Army, a banned separatist group, has demanded the release of imprisoned members, threatening to kill hostages if their demand is not met. The militants have positioned themselves as suicide bombers among the hostages and are using women and children as shields.
So far, more than 190 hostages have been rescued and at least 30 militants have been killed in the ongoing rescue operation. It is unclear whether hostages were freed as a result of military action or released by the militants. The hijacking in an isolated region has made independent verification of events difficult as there is limited cell or internet connectivity.
The train, which was traveling from Quetta to Peshawar, came under attack and the conductor was killed. The capture of the train has led to Pakistan Railways temporarily suspending train operations in Quetta until security agencies confirm safety. Separatist violence and insurgent activity have long plagued Balochistan, with ethnic separatist groups targeting security forces and Chinese citizens involved in projects under the Belt and Road Initiative.
Experts believe separatist groups have become increasingly sophisticated in their tactics, including suicide bombings, and have an advanced intelligence-gathering network. Just last week, separatist groups announced plans to intensify attacks on Pakistani security forces, infrastructure, and Chinese interests in the region. The B.L.A.’s ability to hijack a train with precision indicates strategic planning and organization.
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