As the rescue operations continue in the Pakistan train hijack, local reports have stated that around 155 hostages have been rescued. Officials have stated that the rescue operation has been "increasingly difficult" as the BLA militants are using women and children as human shields.
On Tuesday, militants from the Baloch Liberation Army hijacked a Pakistan railways operated Jaffar Express as it travelled from Quetta to Peshawar. Across the nine bogies, around 450 passengers are assumed to have been on board the train.
As the rescue effort continues, 37 passengers were injured and have been evacuated for medical treatment. Apart from this, the total number of militants killed has also increased from 16 to 27.
As per reports, the attacks bombed the railway track before storming the train and injuring the driver. While claiming responsibility for the hijack, BLA warned that if any military interference or operation is launched, hundreds of the passengers will be executed.
Rescued Passengers Recall Hijack Horror
Speaking to AFP, one of the rescued passengers recalled the incident and thanked the forces for safely evacuating him from the train.
"There was gunfire, but by the grace of Allah, the army and FC personnel brought us to safety," said one of the rescued passengers.
"I can't find the words to describe how we managed to escape. It was terrifying," another passenger on board told AFP.
Speaking to BBC Urdu, Mushtaq, who was in coach number three of the train, said, “The attack started with a ‘huge explosion.' After that, the firing started. The firing continued for an hour. It was a scene that can never be forgotten."
