High-stakes rescue: Suicide bombers complicate rescue operation

The Pakistani security force saved 190 train passengers from separatist insurgents who abducted them in the southwestern region of Balochistan, according to news agency AFP. Rescuers continued their operations for a second consecutive day while facing delays because some militants posed as suicide bombers thus requiring utmost care from the rescue team.

 Baloch Liberation Army 

Extreme care is being employed by authorities because women and children are involved with suicide bombers according to sources who spoke to AFP. The Baloch Liberation Army (BLA) militant group took control of the train when it entered Bolan district tunnel on Tuesday. The group which fighters use to challenge the Pakistani state released the hostages while surrounding them with suicide bombers and requested the release of jailed militants for the passengers' freedom. Official heads maintain their traditional position against engagement with militant organizations therefore they have not engaged with the demanded release of jailed militants.

Militants suffer heavy casualties

The Pakistani military fought intense combat against the armed militants killing a minimum of thirty insurgents. The operational forces sent helicopters to join armed service members during patrols through mountainous regions as officials classified this event as terrorism. Operations continue as more than 190 passengers were rescued among the estimated 450 passengers on board.

China-Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC)

An analysis shows this incident constitutes the BLA's inaugural operation of successfully seizing a train. The group has attacked security forces together with infrastructure before targeting Chinese nationals who participate in the China-Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC). The Chinese government condemned the attack through a statement by foreign ministry spokeswoman Mao Ning who also expressed Beijing’s backing for Pakistan’s counter-terror operations.

How the attack unfolded

Security officials claim that terrorists stopped the train when they triggered their explosive devices on the tracks thereby breaking the train engine and all nine coaches. A critical injury left the driver hospitalized from gunshots and security guards received attacks on board.