The hijacking of Jaffar Express in Balochistan, Pakistan, on 11 March resulted in the tragic death of at least 10 passengers on a train carrying more than 400 passengers.
The International Transport Workers’ Federation (ITF) condemns the deadly hijacking by the armed separatist Baloch group.
Surviving passengers and workers on board have reportedly been taken hostage by an armed separatist group who attacked the train.
“The ITF sends our sincere condolences to the family, friends, and colleagues of the victims of this horrific attack,” said ITF General Secretary Stephen Cotton.
“It is unacceptable for transport workers to face violence while performing their jobs. They are essential to keeping communities connected and economies moving and should not have to risk their lives to do so,” added Cotton.
Julio Sosa, ITF Railway Workers’ Section Chair, echoed these sentiments: “We stand in solidarity with the RWU and urge authorities to take urgent action to protect railway staff and passengers.”
The ITF urges the Government of Pakistan to work closely with unions to develop and implement comprehensive safety strategies that will protect workers and passengers by preventing future attacks.
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Media contact: media@itf.org.uk
