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

The BLA gained prominence in 2004 when it launched a violent struggle against Pakistan for self-determination for the Baloch people and the separation of Balochistan from Pakistan. The Pakistan government banned the Balochistan Liberation Army and designated it as a terrorist organization on April 7, 2006.

Pakistan army reveals details of Balochistan Liberation Army attack on Jaffar Express, resulting in 26 hostages killed and 33 terrorists eliminated.

The outlawed Baloch Liberation Army claimed responsibility for the attack that began Tuesday and ended Wednesday when troops killed all 33 insurgents.

Pakistan authorities announced the elimination of 33 militants who attacked a passenger train and the rescue of all remaining hostages, reports AP News. Armed fighters from the separatist group Baloch Liberation Army (BLA) attacked the Jafer Express train traveling from Quetta to Peshawar.