KP Governor Faisal Karim Kundi announces cancellation of gold mining leases, alleges political involvement in illegal mining and orders contractors to remove heavy machinery within a week.
PESHAWAR: Khyber Pakhtunkhwa Gov. Faisal Karim Kundi has announced the cancellation of all gold mining lease agreements across the province, declaring that no one will be allowed to conduct gold mining from now on. He warned that machinery belonging to those continuing illegal mining activities would be confiscated and directed contractors to remove their heavy machinery within a week.
Speaking to the media in Peshawar, Kundi alleged that 80% of the revenue generated through illegal mining in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa was being transferred to Afghanistan. He also claimed that commanders of the outlawed militant group were collecting extortion money from people involved in mining operations, charging Rs800,000 from local individuals and up to Rs4 million from those coming from outside the area.
The governor further claimed that 12 politicians belonging to different political parties had been found involved in illegal gold mining activities. He named former provincial minister Aftab Alam, former federal minister Shehryar Afridi and Sen. Khurram Zeeshan among the political figures allegedly linked to the activity.
Kundi also alleged that some former local government representatives and close relatives of political personalities were involved in the illegal mining operations.
According to the governor, more than 8,000 tractors and other vehicles, along with 1,600 dumpers, were being used at illegal mining sites. He claimed that approximately 90 kilograms of gold were extracted every month, causing substantial financial losses to the provincial exchequer.
He said provincial resources had been exploited over the past 13 years, stressing that illegal mining had deprived the government of significant revenue that could otherwise have benefited the province.
Kundi also disclosed that Fitna al-Khawarij attacked police personnel during an operation against illegal gold mining in Kohat, resulting in the martyrdom of 10 police officers, including a deputy superintendent of police (DSP).
Announcing further action, the governor said a judicial commission would be established to investigate the incident and illegal mining activities and determine those responsible. He said individuals involved in mining without valid leases would face criminal cases, while checking mechanisms would be strengthened to prevent the illegal transportation of mineral resources.
The governor also announced the formation of a special task force named after DSP Haider Zaman, who was killed in the Kohat incident. He said police and security forces were united in their efforts against terrorism.
Kundi maintained that properly regulated mining could strengthen the provincial economy and benefit the public. Referring to the Minerals Investment Forum held in Islamabad, he said investors had been invited to explore investment opportunities in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa.
He emphasized that protecting mineral resources, improving security and ensuring transparency would remain priorities, adding that action against illegal activities would continue to promote peace and prosperity in the province.
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