The Most Shocking Train Hijackings in History – Who Did It and How It Ended

The Most Shocking Train Hijackings in History: Train hijackings are rare but have had significant historical and political consequences. Whether driven by criminal intent, political agendas, or acts of terror, these incidents have shaped security policies worldwide. In this article, we’ll explore some of the most infamous train hijackings, their impact, and lessons learned.

The Most Shocking Train Hijackings in History

Train hijackings have had lasting impacts on global security policies. From China’s warlord era to modern terrorism in South Asia, each incident has reinforced the need for stronger countermeasures. By learning from these cases, governments continue to develop strategies to keep railways safe for passengers worldwide.

Lincheng Train Hijacking (China, 1923)

One of the first recorded train hijackings, the Lincheng incident took place in China when bandits stopped the Peking Express and kidnapped around 300 passengers. The event led to international diplomatic efforts to resolve the crisis, ultimately ending in ransom payments.

What Happened?

• The train was derailed and passengers were taken hostage.
• High-profile foreign diplomats were among the victims.
• The hostages were released after a ransom was negotiated.

Impact

This incident exposed China’s lawlessness under warlord rule and led to increased international military presence. It also led to foreign governments increasing security measures for their diplomats and foreign workers in China.

Wijster Train Hijacking (Netherlands, 1975)

In 1975, South Moluccan separatists hijacked a train in Wijster, Netherlands, demanding recognition for their movement.

Key Events

• Armed militants stopped a train and took 50 hostages.
• They executed three hostages to force the government’s hand.
• The crisis ended after the hijackers surrendered.

Aftermath

The Dutch government increased security on public transport and took a stricter approach to dealing with hijackings. The incident brought global attention to the South Moluccan cause, but also led to growing concerns about separatist extremism in Europe.

De Punt Train Hijacking (Netherlands, 1977)

Two years after the Wijster hijacking, another Moluccan group hijacked a train, leading to a 20-day standoff.

The Standoff

• Dutch special forces stormed the train, killing six hijackers.
• Two hostages were also killed.
• Negotiations lasted for days but ultimately failed.

Lessons Learned

This incident led to debates on counter-terrorism tactics and stricter security measures on Dutch railways. The government introduced faster response strategies for similar events, including specialized hostage rescue teams.

Bhubaneswar Rajdhani Hijacking (India, 2009)

Maoist rebels in India hijacked a Rajdhani Express train in 2009 to protest government policies.

Key Details

• Around 400 insurgents stopped the train.
• They demanded the release of political prisoners.
• All hostages were released after negotiations.

Security Measures Taken

This incident prompted the Indian government to deploy more security personnel on high-profile trains and improve railway crisis management. Additionally, the government implemented stricter monitoring of railway routes in regions known for Maoist activity.

Jaffar Express Hijacking (Pakistan, 2025)

A recent and violent hijacking, the Jaffar Express was taken over by Baloch separatists, leading to a military intervention.

The Operation

• The train was hijacked in a mountainous region.
• Pakistani security forces launched a counterattack.
• Several militants were killed, and hostages were freed.

Consequences

The attack raised concerns over railway security in conflict zones and prompted new anti-terror measures in Pakistan. It also led to increased military patrols in areas known for separatist activity.

Southern Pacific Express Hijacking (United States, 1976)

One of the most significant train hijackings in the United States, this incident was led by an armed criminal gang looking to rob passengers and freight.

Key Facts

• The gang took control of the train in Texas.
• Armed police intercepted the train after a prolonged chase.
• All hostages were freed, and the criminals were arrested.

Impact

The incident led to improved railway security measures, including increased police presence on major rail routes.

Santa Fe Train Hijacking (Mexico, 1980)

A politically motivated hijacking, this event was executed by an armed militia seeking to demand changes in local governance.

The Incident

• The militia took over the train and held passengers hostage.
• Several were killed in the standoff with the military.
• A final raid led to the capture of the perpetrators.

Outcomes

This hijacking exposed weaknesses in railway security in Mexico, prompting the government to increase armed patrols and implement stricter controls on railway stations.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. What are the main reasons behind train hijackings?

Train hijackings are usually motivated by political, terrorist, or criminal objectives, including ransom demands or hostage-taking.

2. How have governments responded to train hijackings?

Most governments have improved railway security, deployed special forces, and implemented stricter crisis-response protocols.

3. Are train hijackings common today?

While rare, train hijackings still occur in politically unstable regions. Improved security measures have significantly reduced their frequency.

4. What are the most dangerous regions for train hijackings?

Train hijackings are more common in conflict-prone regions, such as parts of South Asia, the Middle East, and some Latin American countries where criminal or militant groups operate.