Loss of Trillions? NAB Uncovers KP Gold Mining Scam

According to sources within NAB, investigations into placer gold mining contracts in KP revealed gross irregularities. Deals struck with private companies were allegedly designed in a way that benefited contractors at the expense of the provincial and federal governments. Key findings include undervalued contracts that allowed private firms to extract gold, silver, and other precious minerals at prices far below market rates.

There was non-transparent bidding processes that raised suspicions of collusion between officials and contractors. Improper monitoring of mining output enabled companies to underreport extraction volumes while smuggling minerals abroad. Khyber Pakhtunkhwa is known to be rich in natural resources, particularly placer. Unlike large-scale hard rock mining, placer mining is relatively low-cost and quick to set up.

Geologists have long pointed out that KP’s rivers, particularly in districts such as Swat, Chitral and Kohistan, carry significant gold deposits. These resources have often been exploited in opaque deals, leaving ordinary citizens with little to no benefit. The scandal has sparked public anger and renewed debates on corruption. Civil society organizations, mining experts, and political opponents are demanding accountability.

The revelations have quickly taken a political turn. Opposition parties are blaming the KP government, which has been under the control of Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) for over a decade, for negligence and complicity in the scandal. The placer mining scandal is being compared to the infamous Reko Diq case, where mismanagement of gold and copper contracts in Balochistan led to a $6 billion penalty against Pakistan in international arbitration. Experts warn that unless Pakistan strengthens its mineral governance, history may repeat itself.

The NAB revelations about placer gold mining in KP may be just the tip of the iceberg. If pursued seriously, this case could expose the systemic rot that has long plagued Pakistan’s natural resource management. Pakistan cannot afford to lose trillions while its people suffer. The gold of KP’s rivers should be a blessing not a curse. For once, accountability must mean more than headlines. It must deliver justice and ensure that Pakistan’s natural wealth serves its people, not a corrupt few.