Key Takeaways
- Authorities stepping up security measures at the Saindak copper and gold mine in Balochistan.
- The move comes after supply routes were disrupted by terrorists, affecting operations.
- China’s MRDL company reaffirms commitment to safety and operational performance.
State Minister for Interior Tallal Chaudhry announced on Wednesday that security around the Saindak copper and gold mine in Balochistan has been increased following disruptions caused by terrorists. The mine, operated by state-owned Metallurgical Corporation of China’s Resources Development Company (MRDL), is facing challenges due to supply route disruptions.
Chaudhry stated that Islamabad had received security concerns from the mine operator in early July and ordered relevant agencies to enhance their presence around the installations, personnel, logistics, and transportation. He emphasized: 'It is our priority to safeguard all projects run by international companies in Pakistan.'
The development aligns with ongoing kinetic operations under Operation Shaban, a high-intensity counterterrorism campaign launched by Pakistan’s security forces following multiple terrorist attacks in Balochistan.
In response to reports suggesting the mine could be forced to shut down due to deteriorating security conditions, Saindak Metals Limited’s Managing Director Raziq Sanjrani refuted these claims. He told Reuters: 'The report published by the Financial Times is factually incorrect.'
China's foreign ministry expressed awareness of the situation and stated that Beijing would work with Pakistan to protect Chinese citizens, projects, and institutions in the country.
MRDL’s President Tan Jin highlighted the company’s achievements at the Saindak project. In a statement, he said: 'The operational performance reached new heights and the Pakistan-China partnership has grown even stronger.'
Jin also emphasized MRDL's commitment to social responsibility and declared 2026 as a year of new goals and responsibilities for the company.
Despite the current challenges, Chaudhry assured that all efforts are being made to ensure the safety and continuity of operations at the Saindak mine. He added: 'We have directed the provincial authorities and all concerned security agencies to beef up deployment for all of their installations, personnel, logistics and transportation.'
It is our priority to safeguard all projects run by international companies in Pakistan.
Tallal Chaudhry, State Minister for Interior
'The report published by the Financial Times is factually incorrect.'
Raziq Sanjrani, Managing Director, Saindak Metals Limited
