The Balochistan government has decided to establish a dedicated Frontier Corps (FC) security force and expand its intelligence network to protect the Reko Diq copper-gold project and secure borders with Iran and Afghanistan, following a wave of terrorist attacks by the banned BLA.
The decision comes days after Barrick Mining Corporation, the lead investor in the multibillion-dollar Reko Diq project, announced an immediate review of security arrangements amid escalating violence in Balochistan.
“In light of recent terrorist events, the provincial government, in coordination with security forces, is redesigning the entire security architecture,” Shahid Rind, aide to Chief Minister Sarfraz Bugti on media and political affairs, told Arab News.
“This includes raising a dedicated Frontier Corps unit for mineral-bearing areas and strengthening security along both borders, namely Iran and Afghanistan.”
Dedicated force for mining zones, intelligence expansion
According to provincial officials, the new FC unit will be tasked exclusively with protecting mining areas, critical infrastructure, and investment-linked projects, with Reko Diq identified as the top priority.
The government will also expand its intelligence network and enhance coordination with mining companies operating in sensitive districts to prevent future attacks and ensure uninterrupted development.
“The provincial government is extremely serious about foreign investment in Balochistan and considers Reko Diq the flag-bearer of international investment,” Rind said.
“All necessary measures will be taken to ensure its security.”
Move follows BLA attacks
The security overhaul follows coordinated attacks last week by the banned Baloch Liberation Army in multiple districts of Balochistan, which left 36 civilians and 22 security personnel martyred , according to authorities. Security forces said 216 militants were killed during follow-up operations.
Barrick, which is developing one of the world’s largest copper and gold mines in Balochistan in a statment said;
“As stated in our public disclosures, Barrick is undertaking a review of all aspects of the Reko Diq project, including security arrangements,” a company spokesperson said.
Reko Diq key to Pakistan’s investment push
Barrick holds 50 percent ownership of the Reko Diq project, while three Pakistani federal state-owned enterprises own 25 percent. The Government of Balochistan owns the remaining 25 percent.
The project is expected to begin production in 2028 and is seen as central to Pakistan’s strategy to boost mineral exports and attract foreign investment into its underdeveloped mining sector.
Despite heightened security threats, authorities say development linked to Reko Diq will continue, with additional layers of protection being put in place to ensure long-term viability and investor confidence.
