Pakistani security forces successfully rescued 155 passengers after armed gunmen hijacked a train carrying 450 people in the country’s southwestern province of Balochistan.
The incident occurred late Tuesday when unidentified militants stormed the train near Mach, a district in Balochistan, forcing it to a halt and taking dozens of passengers hostage. The attackers were heavily armed and reportedly demanded the release of detained militants in exchange for the hostages.
Security officials launched a swift rescue operation in coordination with local authorities. The Pakistan Army, paramilitary Frontier Corps, and police forces worked together to secure the train and free the passengers. After several hours of intense gunfire, the security forces managed to overpower the hijackers, leading to the safe rescue of 155 people.
Authorities have not disclosed the exact number of casualties, but reports indicate that multiple gunmen were killed in the operation, while some security personnel sustained injuries.
Balochistan, which shares borders with Iran and Afghanistan, has been plagued by militant insurgencies for years, with various separatist groups and armed factions carrying out attacks against security forces and civilians. The hijacking is believed to be linked to ongoing tensions in the region.
Pakistan’s Interior Minister, Mohsin Naqvi, praised the security forces for their quick response, stating, “Our forces have once again demonstrated their bravery and commitment to protecting the people of Pakistan. Such acts of terrorism will not be tolerated, and we will take all necessary measures to ensure the safety of our citizens.”
Investigations are underway to determine the identity of the attackers and their motives. Meanwhile, additional security measures have been implemented on railway networks across the country to prevent similar incidents in the future.
