On March 11, 2025, the Baloch Liberation Army (BLA) seized the Jaffar Express train in Bolan, Pakistan, holding over 100 people captive and murdering six military officials. The train was going from Quetta, Balochistan, to Peshawar, Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, when it was attacked.
The BLA claimed responsibility for the painstakingly organised operation, claiming that its fighters blew up the railway track, causing the train to stop and then quickly seizing possession of it.
The rebel group warned Pakistan that any military action would result in terrible repercussions, including the killing of all captives.
In a statement, the BLA stated its fighters carried out a “meticulously planned operation” in Mashkaf, Dhadar, and Bolan. “Our independence warriors blew up the railway track, causing the Jaffar Express to come to a stop. “The fighters quickly took control of the train and held all passengers hostage,” the organisation said in a statement.
Women, children, and Baloch passengers were released by the BLA, leaving only Pakistani military officials and members of other security services as prisoners.
The attack was carried out by specialist BLA groups such as the Majeed Brigade, STOS, and Fateh Squad.
The BLA issued a harsh warning, stating, “If the occupying forces attempt any military operation, the consequences will be severe.” Hundreds of captives will be killed, and the occupying army will bear all responsibility for the slaughter.
The BLA issued a statement warning against any military reaction, threatening to kill captives if their demands were not granted. They claimed to have freed women, children, and Baloch passengers while holding only Pakistani security officers as captives. The organisation also called for a stop to airstrikes in Balochistan.
The provincial administration has implemented emergency measures and mobilised institutions to confront the problem. Security troops have been rushed to the scene, but rescue attempts are apparently stalled owing to the difficult terrain. Railway officials verified that the train’s driver sustained significant injuries during the incident.
The Jaffar Express incident reflects persistent tensions in Balochistan, where separatist organisations such as the BLA have conducted a decades-long struggle against the Pakistani government. The region has seen several attacks on government personnel and infrastructure, creating instability in this resource-rich but economically disadvantaged province.
The event underlines Balochistan’s continuing conflict, in which separatist groups have long desired independence from Pakistan. The region is strategically vital because of its abundant mineral and gas resources and proximity to critical trade routes.
Pakistani security personnel have responded to the problem, and an operation is currently ongoing to resolve it. The provincial administration has declared an emergency and organised institutions to deal with the crisis.
