Taliban Confirm Deadly Clashes Over Gold Mine in Takhar Province

DID Press: Afghanistan’s Taliban-run Ministry of Mines and Petroleum has confirmed deadly clashes over the extraction of a gold mine in Chah Ab district of Takhar province and said a delegation has been dispatched to investigate the incident. Local sources say several people have been killed and wounded.

Authorities stated that following Tuesday’s unrest at mines in the province, a delegation led by local officials was sent to the area to assess conditions at the site and determine the causes of the dispute.

In an audio message, ministry spokesperson Homayoun Afghan confirmed fighting between miners and local residents, saying the incident resulted in both casualties and property damage. He did not provide figures, noting details would be released after the investigation is completed.

Earlier reports indicated that residents of the Samti area clashed with companies linked to the Taliban over mining activities and allegedly set fire to some of the companies’ equipment.

Local sources said at least three residents and one Taliban member have been killed, while 16 others have been injured. They added that tensions remain high and the situation is escalating.

Residents say protests erupted over what they describe as uncontrolled gold extraction, environmental damage, and reduced water supply caused by extensive digging. They allege that three companies operating in the area are responsible for growing public anger.

Sources also claim the companies are linked to figures close to Bashir Noorzai, a major drug trafficker and long-time financial supporter of the Taliban.

Similar confrontations reportedly occurred last Friday when Taliban members entered residential areas for gold extraction operations.