Pakistan: The federal government has announced enhanced security measures for the Chinese-operated Saindak copper and gold mine in Balochistan following terrorist attacks that disrupted supply routes. The move comes after reports suggested the project could face closure due to worsening security, a claim the mine’s operator has strongly denied. State Minister for Interior Talal Chaudhry said security deployment has been increased around the mine’s installations, personnel, logistics, and transportation to ensure uninterrupted operations.
Why Has Pakistan Increased Security at the Saindak Mine?
The government said additional security was ordered after the mine operator raised concerns over disruptions to supply routes in early July. Saindak Metals Limited Managing Director Raziq Sanjrani said the company had requested government assistance to transport furnace oil after some transporters refused to use certain routes through Balochistan. He added that security agencies had assured full support to maintain uninterrupted supplies and protect the project.
Is the Chinese-Run Saindak Mine Facing Closure?
Saindak Metals Limited has rejected reports that the mine could shut down, calling them “factually incorrect.” Sanjrani said the mine has operated continuously for 25 years and there is “no possibility” of closure. Operated by China’s state-owned Metallurgical Corporation of China under a lease extended in 2022, the mine exports most of its production to China. Meanwhile, China’s foreign ministry reaffirmed its commitment to working with Pakistan to safeguard Chinese nationals, projects, and institutions in the country.