Over 100 Hostages Rescued from Hijacked Train in Pakistan's Balochistan

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Pakistani security forces successfully rescued over 100 hostages from a hijacked train in Balochistan, following an intense gunfight that claimed the lives of at least 16 rebels. The Jaffar Express, which was carrying more than 400 passengers, was intercepted by armed attackers on its route from Quetta to Peshawar. The rescue operation, which included 58 men, 31 women, and 15 children, took place after a firefight that lasted overnight, as reported by local authorities.

The separatist group, Balochistan Liberation Army (BLA), has claimed responsibility for the hijacking, alleging that they demanded the release of political prisoners within 48 hours or threatened to "completely destroy" the train. They also claimed to have killed 30 soldiers, a statement that remains unverified by authorities. As the situation unfolds, some hostages are reportedly being pursued by the rebels into the mountainous terrain.

Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif condemned the attack, while Interior Minister Mohsin Naqvi accused "enemy forces" of attempting to destabilize the region. Emergency response desks have been established in Peshawar and Quetta to assist families of those affected.

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