Pakistan has decided to enhance its intelligence network and raise a dedicated security force to protect mineral-rich Balochistan and its borders with Iran and Afghanistan, a senior provincial official said, as authorities seek to reassure foreign investors following recent militant violence.
The move comes days after Canadian mining giant Barrick Mining Corporation announced it would immediately launch a comprehensive review of all aspects of the multibillion-dollar Reko Diq copper-gold project. The decision followed coordinated attacks by the banned Baloch Liberation Army across several districts of Balochistan last Saturday, which killed 36 civilians and 22 security personnel. Authorities later said security forces killed 216 militants in subsequent operations.
“In light of the recent terrorist events, the provincial government, in coordination with security forces, is redesigning the entire security architecture,” said Shahid Rind, aide to Balochistan Chief Minister Sarfraz Bugti. He added that plans included raising a dedicated Frontier Corps unit for mineral-bearing areas and strengthening security along the province’s borders with Iran and Afghanistan.
Government moves to reassure investors
Meanwhile, the Balochistan government plans to significantly boost its intelligence network and work more closely with mining companies operating in the region. Rind said the provincial leadership viewed Reko Diq as a flagship foreign investment project and was committed to ensuring its protection and continuity.
Barrick confirmed it was reviewing the project’s security arrangements, development timeline and capital budget. The company said the review would begin immediately, with an update to follow once completed. Barrick holds a 50% stake in Reko Diq, while Pakistani state-owned enterprises own 25% and the Balochistan government retains the remaining share.
Despite the heightened security situation, officials said preparatory work linked to the project was continuing. The mine is expected to begin production in 2028 and is central to Pakistan’s strategy to boost mineral exports. Barrick is also expected to invest in port infrastructure, with dedicated facilities at Port Qasim planned to handle future exports.
