Measures will be taken to combat illegal smuggling of state-owned natural resources, according to a statement released by the Information Team of the State Administration Council. The Constitution clearly states that the State is the original owner of all natural resources in land, above-ground, below-water and in the air and that extraction activities of natural resources are permitted in accordance with relevant laws.

Taking advantage of the terrorist attacks and armed insurgencies that are currently happening in some regions of the country, excessively greedy businessmen are illegally stealing and smuggling state-owned natural resources and supporting terrorist groups and armed insurgents, the statement said.

In addition to ignoring the law, they are also seen attracting and recruiting poor local people with money to work. Therefore, it is necessary to be aware that such activities encourage terrorism. Thus, the State will investigate and reveal such activities and take necessary action to combat those who illegally extract state-owned resources and support terrorist groups and armed insurgents, the statement said