KP Governor Cancels Gold Mining Leases and Suspends All Mining Activity in Province

PESHAWAR: Khyber Pakhtunkhwa Governor Faisal Karim Kundi has announced the cancellation of gold mining leases and the immediate suspension of all mining activity in the province.

Speaking at a press conference in Peshawar on Saturday, the governor directed lease holders and contractors to remove heavy machinery from the relevant areas within one week. The provincial adviser on minerals, the chief secretary and IG Zulfiqar Hameed were also present at the press conference.

The governor warned that no leniency would be shown to those involved in illegal mining, and that strict action would be taken against anyone who violates the restrictions.

The announcement comes days after an operation against illegal gold mining in Kohat district led to a clash in which 10 police personnel were martyred and 18 terrorists were killed. According to police, the operation was carried out by Khyber Pakhtunkhwa police and the local administration against elements involved in illegal mining at Darab Kach, near Kohat.