Pakistan Train Hijacking: Hostage Rescue Efforts Hampered by Suicide Bombers

Pakistan Train Hijacking: As per reports from the AFP, security forces of Pakistan have rescued 190 train passengers who were taken hostage by separatist militants in the southwestern province of Balochistan, with the operation entering the second day of rescue. Meanwhile, the presence of suicide bombers among the militants and caution exercised by authorities were challenges to the execution of the operation.

"Due to the presence of women and children with suicide bombers, extreme caution is being exercised," the sources told AFP, adding that 30 militants have been killed.

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The Baloch Liberation Army (BLA), the group prone to insurgency against the Pakistani state, had hijacked the train on Tuesday while it was entering a tunnel in Bolan district.

Surrounding the hostages were suicide bombers from the insurgent group, who demanded that the Pakistani authorities release jailed militants in exchange for the freedom of the passengers. In accordance with their longstanding policy, the authorities have remained silent in response to the demands made by BLA, refusing to negotiate.

Militants suffer heavy casualties

Fierce fighting has ensued between Pakistani security forces and insurgents, helping to kill at least 30 militants till now. Helicopters supported the ground effort in mountainous terrain while officials have classified the operation as an act of terrorism. As of now, over 190 out of an estimated 450 passengers have been rescued, and the operations continue.

This is the first known case in which the BLA have ever hijacked a train. Previously, the BLA has targeted security forces and infrastructure while also attacking innocent civilians, among them Chinese nationals working on CPEC projects. The attack was condemned by China with Foreign Ministry spokesperson Mao Ning reiterating support for Pakistan's counter-terrorism endeavors.

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How the attack unfolded

After damaging the engine and nine coaches of the train, the militants had laid explosives to immobilize it, as per a statement by the security personnel. The driver received gunshot wounds and sustained seriously injured, and attacks were also launched against the security guards present on board.

The passengers rescued, including women and children, were subsequently dispatched to hospitals or home towns in Mach District and Quetta, about 100 kilometers away. The train had been coming from Quetta on its way to Peshawar when it was hijacked.

Balochistan has always been fertile ground for the insurgency, resourceful and troubled, where diverse movements seek increased autonomy and a greater share of its natural resources. The BLA, one of the major insurgent groups in Balochistan, has been pursuing a long-standing campaign against the Pakistani state and often targets infrastructure projects tied to China's Belt and Road Initiative.

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