Jaffar Express hijack: 'Massive operation' underway as Pak forces battle to rescue passengers

The Balochistan Liberation Army (BLA), a separatist organisation proscribed by the Pakistan government, hijacked Jaffar Express, which was on its way from Quetta to Peshawar.

In a warning to Pakistan's federal government and army, the BLA said it would execute the passengers in the event of an intervention by the military.

According to Radio Pakistan, security forces have rescued at least 155 passengers from the train, which was hijacked near Bolan district of the restive Balochistan province, which the BLA wants to 'liberate' from Pakistan.

Pakistani security forces said a 'massive operation' was underway to rescue hostages despite obstacles such as remoteness of the area.

The insurgents have placed suicide bombers 'very close' to passengers, Radio Pakistan said, adding that the BLA was doing this in 'anticipation of a possible defeat.'

Earlier, the BLA claimed it had released several passengers from the train, including women, children, senior citizens, and people from Balochistan travelling in the train.

The situation unfolded about 157 kilometers from Quetta, when terrorists attacked the Jaffer Express and took more than 400 passengers hostage, including numerous security personnel.

Pakistani politicians, including President Asif Ali Zardar, Prime Minister Shehbaz Shareef, and others condemned the attack on Jaffar Express, and vowed not to accept BLA's demands to release Baloch prisoners.