Lahore: The Baloch Liberation Army (BLA) has shockingly committed acts of terrorism by stealing the Jaffar Express train in Balochistan, a province of Pakistan under restive conditions. More than in the Masakaf region, the train—which carried more than 450 passengers—was taken in the Bolan district. Saying they have abducted over 100 Pakistani military personnel as hostages—including troops, police, and intelligence agency ISI officials—the BLA asserted credit for the hijack.
Pakistan is now in a military and political crisis due in great part to this open aggression. Should the Pakistani army start any counter-operation, the BLA has issued warnings that it will kill all the captives. According to accounts, at least six military men have been killed in the ensuing conflicts; the attack has left several Pakistani troops dead.
Part of a protracted separatist struggle in Balochistan, the BLA’s operations challenge regional autonomy and Chinese investment, most especially the China-Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC). According to the BLA, CPEC is profiting from Balochistan’s resources without helping the local population. China has undertaken large infrastructure development investments, especially the Gwadar port, which has caused local dissatisfaction due to restrictions on access and livelihoods.
The most populated province in Pakistan, Balochistan also boasts natural riches including coal, gold, copper, and gas. The native Baloch lack ownership of these riches, so they constantly oppose the Pakistani government and military. With accusations directed against Pakistani military and intelligence services, the United Nations and human rights organisations recorded thousands of forced disappearances in Balochistan.
Human rights abuses and the strategic character of the territory have attracted international interest in the conflict. Given China’s large investment, BLA’s demand to stop military operations and postpone the CPEC project presents a significant difficulty for Pakistan.