Taliban Confirms Deadly Clashes Over Gold Mining In Takhar
The Taliban have confirmed clashes between local residents and miners over gold extraction in northern Takhar province, saying a delegation has been dispatched to investigate the violence.
The Taliban have confirmed clashes between local residents and miners over gold extraction in northern Takhar province, saying a delegation has been dispatched to investigate the violence.
Homayoun Afghan, spokesperson for the Taliban’s Ministry of Mines and Petroleum, said a team led by local Takhar officials had been sent to assess the situation at the mining sites.
In an audio message released on Tuesday, Afghan confirmed that confrontations between miners and residents had resulted in casualties and property damage, though he did not give specific figures. He said further details would be released after the investigation is completed.
Afghanistan International reported earlier that residents of the Samti area in Chah Ab district clashed with companies linked to the Taliban over gold mining operations, setting fire to company equipment during the unrest.
Local sources said at least three residents and one Taliban member have been killed, with 16 others wounded. They said clashes were continuing and the situation was rapidly deteriorating.
Videos obtained by Afghanistan International show thick columns of smoke rising from the area of the clashes.
According to local residents, as protests intensified, officials from Taliban-linked companies left the area. Residents said the number of casualties among protesters continues to rise.
Sources said the protests were triggered by concerns over severe environmental damage and water shortages caused by what residents described as unregulated mining.
Residents of Chah Ab district had also clashed with Taliban members on Friday after mining operations began in residential areas.
The companies involved are reportedly linked to Bashar Noorzai, a major drug trafficker described by local sources as a key financial backer of the Taliban. Residents said they are protesting against the activities of three such companies operating in the area.
