The train hijacking in south-western Pakistan represents a major escalation in the region’s long-running insurgency.

Train hijackers in Pakistan’s Balochistan province killed a total of 31 security personnel and civilians before they were neutralised, according to Pakistan Army

Jaffar Express travelling from Quetta to Peshawar and carrying 440 passengers was hijacked in which 21 civilians and four soldiers were killed.

Pak foreign office had claimed that BLA rebels involved in attack on Jaffar Express were in contact with ring leaders in Afghanistan.

On March 13, the Baloch Liberation Army (BLA) rejected Pakistan's claim that the operation in Bolan, Balochistan, has ended, calling it a ‘lie’. The BLA stated that the operation is ongoing and accused Pakistan's military of suppressing casualty figures.

The driver of Jaffar Express, which was hijacked by Balochistan Liberation Army militants, has described the terrifying moment when the insurgents attacked the train as survivors praised the military for their rescue.