Hostage Crisis on Pakistan Train Sparks Balochistan Turmoil

Militants from the Baloch Liberation Army claimed responsibility for holding hostages after attacking a train in Pakistan's Balochistan. The Jaffar Express, carrying 400 passengers, was ambushed and trapped in a tunnel, with demands and threats made by the group. Emergency measures have been initiated by provincial authorities.

In a dramatic turn of events, separatist militants in southwestern Pakistan announced on Tuesday that they had taken hostages during an attack on a heavily populated train. Their demands came with a grim ultimatum as they held hundreds on board.

The Jaffar Express, with around 400 passengers en route to Peshawar, faced an ambush, finding itself trapped in a tunnel. The attack left the train driver wounded while the militants exchanged gunfire with security forces in the area.

The Baloch Liberation Army, a known separatist faction, claimed responsibility, demanding a security retreat or threatening execution of captives. The beleaguered region's government has since declared emergency measures, continuing the region's decades-long struggle over resource control.

(With inputs from agencies.)