Federal Interior Minister Mohsin Naqvi Condemns Jaffar Express Train Hijack

Islamabad: As the Balochistan Liberation Army (BLA) hijacked the Jaffar Express train, Federal Interior Minister Mohsin Naqvi has denounced the attack and firing incident on the Jaffar Express, which left several passengers injured. According to Dawn News, Naqvi expressed his deep concern over the incident and prayed for the speedy recovery of the injured. In his statement given to local media, Naqvi was unequivocal in its condemnation of the rebellions, describing them as "beasts" who do not deserve any concessions. 

As per reports, the Baloch Liberation Army (BLA) has claimed responsibility for the attack on the Jaffar Express, resulting in the loss of 11 lives, including the train driver. The train driver has been identified as Amjad Yasin. The BLA has also claimed to have taken 182 hostages, although Pakistani sources confirm that 17 people have been taken hostage.

Meanwhile, the attack on the Jaffar Express has sent shockwaves throughout Pakistan, with many condemning the senseless loss of life. According to the railway officials, the train driver, Amjad Yasin, has been identified as one of the martyrs.

Baloch Liberation Army Takes 182 Hostages

Following the attack, the Baloch Liberation Army (BLA) has seized control of the Jaffar Express, a passenger train, which was travelling through Balochistan. According to the BLA's latest statement, the group has taken 182 hostages and killed 11 Pakistani military personnel.

The BLA has also claimed to have shot down a drone, which was reportedly used by Pakistani security forces for surveillance in the area. The group's fighters remain in full control of the Jaffar Express, which has been brought to a standstill in a remote area of Balochistan.

Meanwhile, the Pakistan officials stated that the situation is desperate, with the lives of over 150 hostages hanging in the balance. A rescue operation is being planned to secure the release of the hostages.

Also Read | Balochistan Liberation Army Takes Responsibility of Train Hijack in Pakistan | Top Developments

The BLA has clarified that among the hostages are active-duty personnel from the Pakistani Army, Police, ISI, and ATF, all of whom were travelling on leave. The civilian passengers, particularly women, children, the elderly, and Baloch citizens, have been released safely and given a secure route.

The BLA further warns that if military intervention continues, all hostages will be executed. The operation is being led by the Majeed Brigade, STOS, Fatah Squad, and Zirab Unit of the BLA, and any military action will be met with a decisive response.

BLA's Demands

The BLA has long been fighting for the independence of Balochistan from Pakistan. The group's demands are likely to include greater autonomy for the region, as well as the withdrawal of Pakistani security forces. However, the Pakistani government has shown little willingness to negotiate with the BLA, and a military solution is likely to be pursued. 

The separatist organisation has claimed responsibility for the attack, stating that they have taken control of the train and are holding hostages. The group's claims have been confirmed by Pakistani sources, although the exact number of hostages remains disputed.

Also Read| 'All Hostages Will Be Executed...', Baloch Rebels Issues FINAL Warning to Pakistan Army After Hijacking Jaffar Express

Pakistani Authorities Respond

Pakistani authorities have launched a rescue operation to secure the release of the hostages and apprehend those responsible for the attack. The government has condemned the attack, vowing to take decisive action against those involved.