On March 11, 2025, the Baloch Liberation Army (BLA), a separatist militant group, attacked the Jaffar Express passenger train in Balochistan’s Bolan district, Pakistan. The train, en route from Quetta to Peshawar, was ambushed inside Tunnel No. 8 in the Mushkaf area. The assailants reportedly blew up the railway track, causing the train to derail, and subsequently opened fire, injuring the train driver.
Following the derailment, the militants boarded the train, leading to an exchange of gunfire with security personnel on board. The BLA claimed responsibility for the attack, stating they had taken over 100 hostages, including security forces and civilians. They warned that any military intervention would result in severe consequences, including the execution of hostages.
The Balochistan government imposed emergency measures in response, mobilizing all institutions to address the situation. However, the remote and rugged terrain posed significant challenges to rescue operations. Security forces were dispatched to the site, but access was hindered due to the mountainous landscape.
This incident underscores the ongoing insurgency in Balochistan, where separatist groups like the BLA have intensified attacks against Pakistani government entities, military personnel, and infrastructure. The region has experienced a surge in militant activity, with numerous attacks resulting in casualties among security forces and civilians. 