Hostage Crisis on Pakistani Train: Separatists Threaten Lives

The Baloch Liberation Army has taken 182 hostages from a train in southwest Pakistan, demanding military withdrawal from the area. The hostages include military personnel following an attack that left the train trapped in a tunnel. Authorities have confirmed ongoing exchanges of fire with the militants.

Separatist militants have taken 182 hostages in southwest Pakistan, demanding military forces leave the area or face executions. The Baloch Liberation Army (BLA) claimed responsibility, stating they seek independence for Balochistan. The hostages were captured from a train, with intense fire exchange reported near the tunnel where the train was trapped.

Local authorities confirmed the BLA's demand following reports that the train, heading from Quetta to Peshawar, came under fire. While civilian hostages have been released, the fate of military personnel remains uncertain, with further threats issued should the military refuse to withdraw.

An explosion was heard near the tunnel, contributing to the tense standoff between security forces and militants. Pakistan's interior minister condemned the attack, vowing no leniency towards the perpetrators. Emergency measures have been imposed in the province as the decades-long conflict over resource contention in Balochistan intensifies.

(With inputs from agencies.)