The Balochistan government has decided to establish a dedicated Frontier Corps unit to secure mineral-rich areas linked to the Reko Diq project, as part of a broader plan to strengthen security and safeguard foreign investment in the province.
Security Architecture Being Redesigned
According to Shahid Rind, media and political affairs aide to Chief Minister Sarfraz Bugti, the provincial government is overhauling its entire security framework following recent terrorist incidents. The plan includes raising a specialized Frontier Corps force for mineral-bearing regions and tightening surveillance along the borders with Iran and Afghanistan.
He emphasized that the government considers Reko Diq a flagship project for foreign investment and is committed to taking all necessary steps to ensure its protection and continuity.
Attacks Raise Concerns for Investors
The move comes days after coordinated attacks by the Baloch Liberation Army (BLA) in multiple districts of Balochistan killed 36 civilians and 22 security personnel. Authorities later claimed that 216 militants were killed in subsequent operations.
Following these incidents, Barrick Mining Corporation announced it would immediately conduct a comprehensive review of all aspects of the multibillion-dollar Reko Diq copper-gold project, including security arrangements, timelines, and capital planning.
The review reflects growing concern among international investors, who see security stability as essential for long-term operations in the region.
Intelligence Network and Industry Coordination
The provincial government also plans to strengthen its intelligence network and increase coordination with mining companies operating in Balochistan. Officials say close collaboration between security agencies and investors will be crucial to maintaining confidence in the project and ensuring uninterrupted development.
Barrick, which holds a 50% stake in Reko Diq, is developing one of the world’s largest copper and gold mining projects. Pakistani state-owned enterprises hold 25%, while the Balochistan government owns the remaining 25%.
Economic Importance of Reko Diq
The project is expected to begin production in 2028 and is central to Pakistan’s plans to boost mineral exports and attract foreign direct investment into its underdeveloped mining sector.
Preparations are also underway to support exports. Pakistan International Bulk Terminal (PIBT) at Port Qasim in Karachi is set to host dedicated infrastructure for handling copper and gold concentrate shipments. Barrick is expected to invest about $150 million to upgrade facilities for this purpose.
Under an export agreement signed recently, Reko Diq Mining Company plans to ship 800,000 tonnes of copper and gold concentrate in the first phase, with volumes projected to double in the second phase.
Security Challenges Remain
Despite ongoing development work, security challenges in Balochistan continue to pose risks. Persistent militant activity targeting infrastructure, security forces, and state institutions has raised concerns among investors.
Officials acknowledge that safe cargo movement and operational stability will be critical for the project’s success. Any disruption in logistics or security could affect timelines, investment flows, and overall economic benefits tied to the project.
Still, authorities remain optimistic. They say strengthened security, coordinated intelligence, and sustained government commitment will help ensure that Reko Diq becomes a transformative investment for both Balochistan and Pakistan’s wider economy.
