Local sources in Badakhshan province report that gold mining activities have resumed in Nusay District despite a previous directive issued by the Taliban’s supreme leader, Hibatullah Akhundzada, ordering the suspension of gold extraction operations. According to these sources, mining continues without official authorization and in apparent contravention of directives announced by the Taliban leadership.
Sources told media outlets on Friday, June 5, that the Taliban leader had earlier halted gold extraction by local individuals and companies in parts of Badakhshan and Takhar provinces. Under the directive, exploitation of these deposits was to remain suspended until technical assessments were completed and relevant central authorities reached a final decision regarding their future operation.
As part of the implementation of this order, approximately two weeks before Eid al-Adha, a delegation led by the Taliban governor of Badakhshan, accompanied by the group’s special forces, was dispatched to the Darwaz districts. During the visit, operations at several mining sites were suspended, extraction equipment was destroyed, and a number of individuals associated with the activities were detained.
At the time, local Taliban officials stated that these measures were intended to facilitate the review, regulation, and management of mining activities. However, local sources contend that the actions failed to establish lasting control over the sector, noting that gold extraction in Nusay District has resumed in recent days.
Some local sources allege that Mullah Juma Fateh, a local Taliban commander, has played a role in the renewed mining operations. No official statement addressing these claims has yet been issued.
Informed sources indicate that the absence of a transparent and unified framework for managing natural resources has hindered the effective implementation of directives issued by the central leadership. As a result, regional commanders continue to wield significant influence over the control and exploitation of economic resources.
According to these sources, gold mines in Badakhshan have become one of the most important sources of revenue and local influence, intensifying competition among various actors seeking control over these assets. Reports have also emerged of arrests, the destruction of mining equipment, and restrictions on local residents’ access to mineral-rich areas.
Local sources further report growing public dissatisfaction in mining regions, arguing that the lack of transparency in the management and distribution of mining revenues has generated increasing questions and concerns among residents.
Despite the circulation of these reports, the Taliban have not yet issued an official response regarding the resumption of gold mining activities in Nusay District or the alleged disputes surrounding control of the mines.
Writer:Salima Aryaei
