Armed militants attacked a passenger train on Tuesday in Pakistan’s southwestern Balochistan province, taking more than 450 passengers hostage and wounding the train driver, according to officials.
The incident occurred in the remote Sibi district, where gunmen bombed the railway track to halt the train before taking control. The banned outfit Baloch Liberation Army claimed responsibility for the assault in a statement, stating that their operatives had carried out the attack.
Authorities have deployed security forces to the area in an effort to resolve the crisis and secure the release of the hostages. Local media reports indicate that negotiations are underway, but the situation remains tense.
Balochistan has long grappled with separatist movements and militant activity, leading to frequent clashes with security forces. The region’s instability has raised concerns over the safety of civilians and the impact on infrastructure.
This alarming incident highlights the ongoing security challenges in Pakistan and the urgent need for measures to protect public transportation and civilians from militant attacks.
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Militants hold more than 450 train passengers hostage in Pakistan
cgtn.com