Balochistan Liberation Army (BLA) Hijacks Jaffar Express: Over 180 Hostages Taken in Pakistan

Balochistan, Pakistan – March 11, 2025.  In a shocking incident, militants from the Balochistan Liberation Army (BLA) hijacked the Jaffar Express, a passenger train traveling from Quetta to Peshawar, in Pakistan’s Bolan district of Balochistan province. The armed insurgents blew up the railway tracks, forcing the train to stop inside a tunnel, and then opened fire, causing multiple casualties.

Militants Take Over 180 Hostages

According to reports, the BLA has taken more than 180 hostages, including alleged military personnel and government officials, while allowing some civilians to leave. The group is demanding the release of their imprisoned members and has threatened to execute the hostages if their demands are not met.

Eyewitnesses reported chaos and panic as the militants stormed the train, firing indiscriminately. Survivors described the terror of being held at gunpoint as they were forced into separate compartments.

Pakistani Forces Rescue 104 Hostages from BLA Train Hijacking

Some unofficial sources reveal that Pakistani security forces successfully rescued 104 hostages, comprising 58 men, 31 women, and 15 children.  The BLA had initially taken approximately 182 hostages, including alleged military and police personnel, and threatened to execute them if their demands were not met.  The rescue operation resulted in the deaths of 16 militants.  Despite these efforts, a significant number of hostages remain in captivity, with ongoing operations to secure their release. 

BLA’s Demands & Ultimatum

In a statement released shortly after the attack, the Balochistan Liberation Army claimed responsibility and stated:

“We have taken this action to demand the release of our imprisoned Baloch freedom fighters. If our demands are ignored, the consequences will be severe.”

The group has issued a 48-hour ultimatum to the Pakistani government, warning that failure to comply will lead to mass executions of hostages and further attacks on key infrastructure.

Casualties & Injuries

Unofficial reports suggest at least 20 people have been killed, including passengers and railway security personnel. More than 30 others are reported injured, some critically. The actual number of casualties may be higher as details emerge.

Government’s Response & Rescue Operations

The Pakistani government has strongly condemned the attack, calling it an act of terrorism. Authorities have deployed special forces and launched an emergency operation to rescue the hostages.

However, the remote and mountainous terrain of Balochistan, combined with the train being inside a tunnel, is making rescue efforts extremely difficult. Military and law enforcement officials are weighing their options carefully to avoid provoking further violence from the militants.

Background: Who is the BLA?

The Balochistan Liberation Army (BLA) is a separatist militant group that has been fighting for an independent Balochistan for decades. The group has carried out numerous attacks targeting security forces, government officials, and infrastructure projects.

The BLA is known for high-profile attacks, including:

• November 2024 Quetta Railway Station Bombing – A suicide bombing killed 32 people.
• August 2023 Attack on Chinese Engineers – Targeted workers involved in the China-Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC).
• 2022 Karachi University Attack – A female suicide bomber killed four, including Chinese nationals.

The Pakistani government has banned the BLA, designating it as a terrorist organization, while countries like the United States and the UK have also blacklisted the group.

International Reaction

The hijacking has sparked global condemnation, with human rights organizations expressing concern over the safety of the hostages. The United Nations (UN) and neighboring countries have urged Pakistan to take swift action while calling for a peaceful resolution.

Current Situation & What’s Next?

• The hostages remain in captivity, and negotiations between the militants and authorities are reportedly ongoing.
• Rescue teams and the military are preparing for an operation, though the risk remains high.
• The Pakistani government faces a tough choice: negotiate with the insurgents or take military action.
• BLA has warned of further attacks if their demands are ignored.

Final Thoughts

The hijacking of the Jaffar Express marks one of the most serious security breaches in Pakistan’s history. As the situation unfolds, all eyes are on how the government handles the crisis and whether the hostages can be rescued before time runs out.

How Satbhakti Under Sant Rampal Ji Maharaj Can Prevent Such Violence

Acts of violence, terrorism, and extremism stem from ignorance, hatred, and lack of true spiritual knowledge. Satbhakti (True Devotion), as preached by Sant Rampal Ji Maharaj, provides scripture-based guidance that leads individuals away from negative and destructive thoughts, replacing them with peace, righteousness, and compassion.

Through the correct method of worship as described in the Bhagavad Gita, Quran, Bible, and Vedas, people develop inner stability, wisdom, and a sense of purpose, preventing them from being misled by hatred or extremist ideologies. True devotion fosters love, unity, and selfless service, ensuring that individuals choose peace over violence and work towards a harmonious, non-violent world. By following the path of Satbhakti, societies can eradicate terrorism and establish a just, peaceful, and spiritually enlightened world.

FAQs: BLA Hijacks Jaffar Express In Pakistan 

1. What is the Balochistan Liberation Army (BLA)?

The Balochistan Liberation Army (BLA) is a separatist militant group operating in Pakistan’s Balochistan province. They seek independence for Balochistan and have been involved in various attacks targeting security forces and infrastructure. 

2. What happened during the hijacking of the Jaffar Express?

On March 11, 2025, the BLA attacked the Jaffar Express by blowing up the tracks, causing the train to halt in a tunnel near the Bolan district. They opened fire, resulting in casualties, and took over 180 hostages, including alleged military personnel.

3. What are the demands of the BLA following the hijacking?

The BLA is demanding the release of their imprisoned members. They have threatened to execute the hostages if their demands are not met. 

4. How have Pakistani authorities responded to the hijacking?

Pakistani authorities have condemned the attack and initiated rescue operations. Efforts are ongoing to safely rescue the hostages and address the situation. 

5. Has the BLA conducted similar attacks in the past?

Yes, the BLA has a history of attacks in the region, including a suicide bombing at the Quetta railway station in November 2024, which resulted in 32 fatalities.