Turkish national among 10 killed in gun attack at Balochistan mine, another abducted

A Turkish national was among 10 people who lost their lives during an attack on a copper and gold mining project in Pakistan's southwestern Balochistan province.

Officials confirmed the news on Thursday and noted that another Turkish national was taken hostage by the attackers.

"At least 10 people were killed in the incident, including a Turkish national, six workers, and three guards," a local administration official told AFP, speaking on condition of anonymity.

Meanwhile, another police official confirmed the toll and noted that a Turkish national had been killed in the attack, which took place on Wednesday.

"The militants also abducted one Turkish national during the attack," the local administration official said.

Earlier today, reports emerged that Pakistan’s National Refinery Limited said on Wednesday that its Darigwan site in southwestern Balochistan was attacked by unidentified gunmen.

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The company noted that the situation was under control after the security forces conducted a clearance operation, Reuters reported.

As per the report, armed assailants opened fire on the premises, raising fresh concerns over the security of critical energy infrastructure in the region and in the country. The initial reports also suggested that the attackers targeted the site, triggering panic among workers.

The refinery noted that the security personnel responded promptly, and the gunmen soon fled the scene. As of now, no group has claimed responsibility for the attacks.

It is pertinent to note that Pakistan has witnessed sporadic attacks on infrastructure in recent years, particularly in the energy and industrial sectors.

Analysts warned that such incidents could affect investor confidence and unearth the persistent security challenges in a sensitive region.

With inputs from agencies.