WATCH: Baloch Liberation Army Releases Detailed Video Of Jaffar Express Hijack, Claims Heavy Pakistan Army Casualties In Bolan

The Baloch Liberation Army's media wing, Hakkal, released a detailed video documenting the Jaffar Express train hijacking, dubbed "Operation Darra-e-Bolan 2.0," that unfolded in Bolan, located in Pakistan-occupied Balochistan.

The footage showcases the BLA’s orchestrated assault on Pakistani military forces escorting the train, reportedly resulting in significant casualties.

Have a look at it here:

BLA Claims Execution of Hostages in Bolan Hijacking

The video, lasting over 30 minutes, features dramatic footage of the 11 March 2025 operation in the rugged Bolan region. It details how BLA fighters, especially members of the Majid Brigade, Fateh Squad, and Special Tactical Operations Squad, halted the Quetta-to-Peshawar-bound Jaffar Express by planting explosives along the railway and engaging escorting Pakistani forces in a gun battle.

According to the BLA, the operation was a warning to the “occupying state” and marked a significant moment in what they call the Baloch national liberation struggle. The group claimed it captured 214 Pakistani military personnel and released civilians, including women and children, in adherence to the “principles of international warfare.”

The video names fighters who “embraced martyrdom,” while pledging to continue their insurgency “until final victory.” It accuses Pakistan of ongoing occupation and vows further retaliation if military operations continue in the region.

In contrast, Pakistan’s government launched a counter-operation, codenamed Operation Green Bolan, which reportedly led to the deaths of 33 BLA militants and 18 soldiers, with 354 hostages rescued, according to official sources. Pakistan Railways suspended train services to and from Balochistan during the crisis, and heightened security measures have since been introduced nationwide. The BLA contests these numbers, claiming it killed 50 soldiers and executed 214 hostages after a failed ultimatum to release Baloch political prisoners.

Baloch Leaders Announce Independence, Appeal to UN for Recognition

Following the standoff, Baloch nationalist leaders issued a declaration of independence, seeking international recognition for the “Democratic Republic of Balochistan.” In their statement, they cited decades of state-sponsored violence, enforced disappearances, and systemic repression as justification for their secession.

Protests have since erupted across Balochistan, including in Quetta, where families gathered to identify victims of the hijacking. Demonstrators have rallied behind the call for freedom, while Islamabad has labeled the BLA a terrorist group.

Despite widespread condemnation of the attack, including from Pakistan’s allies and neighbors, Baloch leaders argue their struggle is rooted in a legitimate demand for self-determination.

Published on: Monday, May 19, 2025, 11:32 AM IST