cross-posted from: https://lemmy.sdf.org/post/31846408
The controversial exploitation of Afghan mines, involving a Chinese company and local criminal networks through a deal with the Taliban, has come to light, revealing that the Chinese firm has enlisted the help of local drug lord Haji Basheer Noorzai, who was released from US custody in a prisoner exchange in 2022, to facilitate this operation.
The agreement, which lacks transparency and international legitimacy, has sparked serious concerns regarding resource theft, ecological degradation, and human rights violations. The Samti mines in Takhar Province, estimated to contain 20-25 metric tons of gold, have been handed over to Noorzai for extraction.
These mines represent a significant resource for Afghanistan’s economy, part of the country’s extensive mineral wealth. However, the current exploitation is adversely affecting local communities and the environment through unauthorised gold extraction, land appropriation, and forced displacement of residents.
The Chinese company’s operations are protected by Taliban security forces, including personnel from the interior ministry and a 410-member border battalion. The Samti mines, spanning an area of eight kilometers by 1.7 kilometers, could greatly benefit Afghanistan’s economy if managed properly.
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“Because we should stop with western imperialism!”
Yeah, I guess everybody would prefer to be exploited by either China or Russia, they really knows how to make people have a nice and quiet life.
