Islamabad, Pakistan – In a dramatic escalation of tensions in Pakistan’s southwestern Balochistan province, the Baloch Liberation Army (BLA) has claimed responsibility for the hijacking of the ‘Jaffar Express’, a passenger train carrying over 400 people. The train, which was en-route from Quetta to Peshawar, was attacked by armed militants in the Bolan district.

According to railway officials, the attackers blew up the tracks, forcing the train to stop before boarding and taking control. Six Pakistani military personnel were killed during the assault, and the train driver was injured. The BLA has warned that the hundreds of hostages aboard the train will be executed if Pakistani forces launch a military operation to free them.

The separatist group, which seeks independence for Balochistan, has long accused Pakistan of exploiting the region’s vast mineral wealth. Balochistan, which covers nearly 44% of Pakistan’s landmass, is rich in natural resources and home to the strategically significant Gwadar port.

Pakistani authorities have imposed an emergency in the region, and reinforcements are being deployed to address the crisis. As the situation remains fluid, the safety of the hostages and potential military responses are under intense scrutiny.