Unidentified gunmen opened fire on the Jaffar Express traveling from Quetta to Peshawar, injuring the driver and causing panic among passengers.
The attack took place on Monday morning, when the train was passing through the Gudalaar and Piru Koneri areas.
According to media, the gunmen forced the train to stop in the mountainous area of Mach, where passengers were reportedly taken hostage. Eyewitnesses and Levies sources indicated that firing continued in the area as the train was halted.
The Railway Police confirmed the incident, stating that the train was halted and around 500 passengers were aboard. There are unconfirmed reports of multiple injuries among the passengers, but the situation is still under investigation.
The PR officer of the Railway DS confirmed that emergency protocols have been activated in nearby hospitals, and ambulances have been dispatched from Sibi.
Security forces have reportedly surrounded the area around Mach mountains, which is known for its difficult terrain. The authorities have deployed additional convoys to assist in the operation.
Sources further indicated that explosives may have been used to damage the railway tracks before the firing began, and the driver was among those seriously injured. The gunmen have reportedly continued to fire sporadically, with ongoing efforts to free the hostages and secure the passengers.
Balochistan has recently witnessed an uptick in militant attacks.
No group has claimed responsibility for the assault on Jaffer Express.
