Quetta, Pakistan – A harrowing train hijacking by separatist militants in Pakistan’s Balochistan province concluded on Wednesday, resulting in the deaths of at least 21 passengers and four security personnel. The Baloch Liberation Army (BLA), a separatist militant group, claimed responsibility for the attack.

The incident began on Tuesday when the Jaffar Express, en route from Quetta to Peshawar with approximately 450 passengers, was forcibly halted by explosives placed on the tracks. Militants armed with suicide vests stormed the train, taking hundreds hostage and threatening to execute five passengers every hour if their demands for the release of Baloch political prisoners were not met.

Security forces, including special forces and hundreds of troops, launched a rescue operation that lasted over 24 hours. The standoff culminated in intense gun battles, during which all 33 militants were killed. Tragically, 21 passengers lost their lives, and four security personnel were also killed in the operation.

Survivors described the ordeal as terrifying, with militants singling out individuals based on regional affiliations and targeting soldiers. One passenger recounted how the attackers grouped passengers by region, targeting soldiers and specific individuals.

The BLA has been waging an insurgency for greater autonomy and a larger share of the region’s mineral resources. This incident marks one of their most audacious attacks in recent years, highlighting the ongoing instability in Balochistan.

Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif condemned the attack and traveled to Balochistan to meet with survivors and the commandos involved in the rescue operation. He assured that the government would continue to combat terrorism and provide support to the affected families.

The incident has raised concerns about the safety of transportation networks in the region and underscores the challenges Pakistani authorities face in addressing separatist insurgencies. The international community has also expressed concern, emphasizing the need for a comprehensive strategy to address the root causes of such conflicts.