Five Chinese Mining Workers Killed in Afghanistan’s Takhar, Facility Torched

At least five Chinese nationals working for Dayulong Zeren Mining have been killed in a violent attack in Chah Ab, located in Takhar, according to regional sources. Several other foreign workers were reportedly abducted, while the company’s processing facility was set ablaze and equipment destroyed.

Looting of Mines Continues in Ragh District of Badakhshan

Amid growing reactions to the looting of mines in northern Afghanistan—particularly in Badakhshan and Takhar—sources have told Aamaj News that the looting of the Yalor mine in Ragh district of Badakhshan is also ongoing.… pic.twitter.com/TQMlcUrUYJ

— Aamaj News English (@aamajnews_EN) January 7, 2026

The attack is believed to have targeted Chinese personnel involved in mineral extraction activities in the area. Local sources said armed assailants stormed the site, killing workers on the spot before setting fire to the processing unit and fleeing with hostages. There was no immediate official statement from Afghanistan’s de facto authorities, and the identities and motivations of the attackers remain unclear.

Growing Risks for Chinese Projects

The incident underscores persistent security risks facing Chinese nationals and investments in Afghanistan, particularly in remote, mineral-rich northern provinces. Since the Taliban’s return to power in 2021, Beijing has cautiously expanded its economic footprint in Afghanistan, focusing on mining, infrastructure and energy projects, while urging Kabul to guarantee security for Chinese citizens.

However, attacks on Chinese interests have occurred repeatedly despite assurances.

Past Incidents Targeting Chinese Nationals

• In December 2022, a suicide bombing targeted a hotel in Kabul popular with Chinese businesspeople, killing several civilians and injuring Chinese nationals.
• In 2023, Chinese engineers working on infrastructure-related projects faced armed attacks and kidnappings in different parts of the country.
• Militants linked to the so-called Islamic State Khorasan Province (ISKP) have previously explicitly threatened Chinese interests, accusing Beijing of exploiting Muslim lands and resources.

While it remains unclear whether ISKP or local armed groups were responsible for the Takhar attack, analysts note that Chinese mining operations have increasingly become high-value targets due to their economic and symbolic significance.

Strategic and Economic Context

Afghanistan is believed to possess vast untapped mineral reserves, including copper, gold, lithium and rare earth elements—resources critical to global supply chains and China’s industrial strategy. Chinese firms, often operating under difficult security conditions, have sought early entry into these sectors.

The killing of Chinese nationals and destruction of mining infrastructure is likely to complicate Beijing’s engagement strategy, potentially forcing China to reconsider the scale, pace, and security arrangements of its Afghan investments.

Regional Implications

Security experts warn that continued attacks on foreign workers could further isolate Afghanistan economically, discouraging external investment at a time when the country faces deep financial distress. For China, the incident highlights the gap between political assurances from Kabul and realities on the ground.

Beijing is expected to raise the issue through diplomatic channels and press Afghan authorities for swift action, recovery of abducted workers, and enhanced protection for Chinese projects.