Pakistani security officials have managed to rescue dozens of passengers from the train hijacked by militants in Balochistan, but hundreds are still under siege in the standoff. The armed attackers, who hijacked the train in a mountain area, have issued unspecified demands in exchange for their release, continuing the crisis.
The standoff started when the train was stormed by militants, injuring the driver and gaining control of several carriages. Pakistani officials, assisted by local police and the army, have been in sensitive negotiations while also putting together rescue plans. Hostage families wait with bated breath, fearing the worst for their loved ones.
Government officials have denounced the attack, promising to act strongly against the perpetrators. Intelligence authorities are attempting to establish the group that laid the siege, with rumors of potential involvement by separatist groups in the area growing.
With international scrutiny finally upon the developing crisis, attempts are being made to ensure the hostages’ release in a safe manner. Military and security personnel are on guard as Pakistan deals with one of its most dramatic hostage crises in recent memory.
