QUETTA, April 23, 2026: At least nine people, including security personnel, were killed in an armed attack on a mining project site in Balochistan’s Chagai district, officials confirmed on Thursday.
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According to authorities, the incident took place on Wednesday evening at a site operated by National Resources Limited (NRL), which is engaged in copper and gold exploration in the region. Unidentified armed assailants targeted workers at the Darigwan area project site before fleeing the scene.
A senior district administration official confirmed that “at least nine employees, including two security guards, were killed.” Police also verified the deaths and said all bodies were shifted to Prince Fahad Hospital in Dalbandin.
In its statement, NRL said security forces, including the Frontier Corps, responded promptly, secured the area, and launched a clearance operation. The company did not confirm casualties in its official release but said it was coordinating with authorities and prioritizing the safety of its workforce.
NRL reaffirmed its commitment to local development in Balochistan, stating that more than 90 percent of its workforce at the site comprises local residents. The company is a joint venture involving Pakistani corporate stakeholders and is actively exploring copper, gold, and other mineral deposits in Chagai.
The Human Rights Commission of Pakistan (HRCP) strongly condemned the attack, stating that the victims were civilians entitled to full protection under law. It called the incident a serious violation of human rights and urged authorities to carry out a transparent investigation and ensure accountability for those responsible.
The HRCP further stressed that development in Balochistan must prioritize the welfare and safety of local communities rather than armed or commercial interests.
Security operations in the area remain ongoing as authorities investigate the motive behind the attack.
