Pakistan Forces Kill 12 Militants After Reko Diq Convoy Ambush in Balochistan

Pakistani security forces killed 12 militants after a convoy linked to the Reko Diq mining project was ambushed in Balochistan, according to officials. Two security personnel were also injured during the gunfight that followed the attack.

The convoy, consisting of around three dozen empty vehicles, was returning to Quetta on Monday after transporting workers from the Reko Diq project site in Chagai. Officials said militants launched a heavy attack on the convoy, prompting security personnel travelling with the vehicles to retaliate.

The ensuing exchange of fire reportedly continued for around two hours. Security forces took positions and responded to the attackers, eventually killing 12 militants.

A Balochistan government spokesperson said the quick response from security personnel accompanying the convoy helped prevent the ambush from causing greater damage. Weapons and ammunition were also recovered from the militants killed during the operation.

Balochistan Chief Minister Mir Sarfraz Bugti confirmed the deaths of 12 militants and said intelligence-based operations against militant groups were continuing across the province.

There was no immediate confirmation about whether the convoy was transporting minerals from the Reko Diq mine when it was attacked. The vehicles were returning after dropping workers at the mining project.

The Reko Diq project is located in Chagai district near Pakistan's borders with Afghanistan and Iran. It is one of Pakistan's major copper and gold mining projects and is considered important to the country's plans to attract foreign investment and increase mineral exports.

The project is being developed by Canada-based Barrick Mining in partnership with the Pakistani government and the Balochistan provincial government.

Security around Reko Diq has remained a major concern because of the wider insurgency in Balochistan. The province has faced militant violence for decades, with groups including the Balochistan Liberation Army seeking independence from Pakistan.

Militant groups have accused the central government of political marginalisation and exploiting Balochistan's natural resources. In recent years, attacks have also targeted security forces, government facilities and projects associated with the China-Pakistan Economic Corridor.

The location of Reko Diq in an insurgency-affected region has previously raised concerns about the safety of workers and infrastructure connected with the mining project. Pakistani authorities have said additional security arrangements have been established to protect the project and its personnel.

The latest convoy ambush highlights the continuing security challenges facing Balochistan despite ongoing military and intelligence operations against militant groups.

The incident also underlines the difficulties surrounding major economic projects in areas affected by long-running insurgencies. While Reko Diq remains strategically important for Pakistan's mining and investment ambitions, maintaining secure access to the project continues to be a significant challenge.