Pakistani security forces have engaged in a deadly firefight with separatist militants after a passenger train was hijacked in the country’s volatile Balochistan province, leaving around 300 hostages trapped on board.
At least 27 militants have been killed so far as elite forces attempt to free the hostages, who were seized when the train was ambushed on Tuesday while passing through a tunnel in the rugged Bolan district.
Security officials say they have rescued more than 150 of the 450 passengers so far, including women and children, but warned that the remaining hostages are at grave risk as the attackers are reportedly wearing suicide vests loaded with explosives.
The Baloch Liberation Army (BLA) has claimed responsibility for the attack, saying it is prepared to negotiate a prisoner swap in exchange for the hostages’ release.
However, there has been no response from the Pakistani government, and tensions remain high as security forces surround the militants.
The train, identified as the Jafar Express, was travelling from Quetta to the northern city of Peshawar when it was attacked on Tuesday.Â
The train was left trapped inside a tunnel after the assault, during which it came under fire and the driver was wounded, police and railway officials said yesterday.
Militants reportedly blew up the railway track before opening fire on security personnel on board.
A relief train had been dispatched to the scene and that security forces were working in the area.
Several of those rescued were brought to Quetta early Wednesday, escorted by security forces, where their relatives were waiting for them.
