News Updates Pk

A government convoy carrying negotiators for a ceasefire between two rival tribes in Upper Kurram has come under gunfire, that left the locality's Assistant Commissioner Saeed Manan, injured. According to the Station House Officer, the district administration had successfully brokered a ceasefire in Upper Kurram, but while a convoy was en route to hold talks with the other faction, when it came under attack. The convoy, led by Assistant Commissioner Saeed Manan, was fired upon, resulting in his injury. Authorities confirmed that Assistant Commissioner Manan was transferred to Bushera Hospital for treatment. The Assistant Commissioner was traveling to Bushera alongside the Ghuljo Kelay area to maintain peace when the convoy came under gunfire. In response, the district administration tightened security measures in the area. Meanwhile, a jirga (tribal council) is underway at the Commissioner’s office in Kurram. Meanwhile, around 66 individuals stranded in Kurram due to the recen...

Punjab's Chief Minister, Maryam Nawaz Sharif, has inaugurated the province's first fully electric bus service in Lahore, the provincial capital. The new fleet consists of buses with a capacity of 30 seats and the ability to carry 80 passengers. The electric buses are equipped with modern amenities, including GPS tracking, Wi-Fi, USB ports, and ramps for people with disabilities. In a bid to improve safety, anti-slip flooring has been installed, and cameras are placed to prevent harassment. To ensure efficiency, nine specialized charging stations have been set up, and each bus will be able to cover a distance of 250 kilometers on a full charge. A digital wallet and card system will also be introduced to facilitate cashless travel.The electric bus service will initially operate on a 21 km route from the Railway Station to Green Town. By mid-February, the service will begin, with buses running every 9 minutes, and 42 modern bus shelters to be installed. The service is expected to ...

The Islamabad High Court has suspended the sentences of 10 individuals convicted in connection with protests that erupted on May 10, 2023, following the arrest of former Prime Minister Imran Khan. A division bench comprising Justice Mohsin Akhtar Kayani and Justice Sardar Ejaz Ishaq Khan ruled in favour of suspending the sentences, granting bail to the convicts upon submission of surety bonds worth Rs25,000 each, Express News reported. In November 2024, an anti-terrorism court had sentenced the convicts to a combined five years and ten months in prison for their alleged role in attacking police personnel and setting a checkpoint on fire at Islamabad’s Faizabad Interchange. The high court, in its written order, noted that case records did not establish that any of the convicts were arrested from the protest site. Defense lawyers argued that the trial court had already acquitted the accused of terrorism charges and had instead convicted them on lesser offenses. “The accused were not caug...

The Pakistani Ministry of Foreign Affairs has issued a response regarding the suspension of US aid to Pakistan. Foreign Ministry Spokesperson Shafqat Ali Khan addressed the issue during a weekly briefing, stating that the government is currently reviewing the US President's recent orders and is in communication with US officials about the aid situation. Khan emphasised that the US and Pakistan have collaborated on various programs across different sectors for years, and Pakistan remains engaged with the US on the matter of assistance. He also expressed Pakistan's desire to strengthen economic relations with the United States. Regarding US-India relations, Khan refrained from commenting, stating that Pakistan’s relations with the US are solid. He also clarified that the US aid freeze applies to all countries for 90 days, and cooperation continues in various sectors, including through US assistance to Pakistan. The spokesperson also noted that US businessmen regularly visit Paki...

The Ministry of Finance has stated that the inflation rate in December dropped to its lowest level in 80 months. According to Express News, the statistics released by the Ministry of Finance show that the inflation rate for the first six months of the fiscal year 2024 stood at 7.2%, compared to 28.8% last year. In December 2024, the inflation rate was recorded at 4.1%, marking the lowest level in 80 months. The report highlights that the stability of the exchange rate, fiscal discipline, and improved supply chains have played a significant role in reducing inflation. Furthermore, the government's strict actions against illegal foreign exchange companies, smuggling, and hoarding have had a positive impact on the economy. According to the Ministry of Finance, the Sensitive Price Indicator (SPI) has shown a continuous decline in the last four weeks of January 2025. In the week ending January 23, 2025, the SPI recorded a 0.77% decrease. The data further revealed that of the 51 items, 1...

Former Supreme Court judge and Chairman of the Missing Persons Commission, Justice (R) Faqir Muhammad Khokhar, has passed away. His family has confirmed the news of his death, stating that his funeral prayers will be offered today, January 29, after the Asr prayer. The funeral will take place in DHA Phase 8 (Park View), Lahore. It is worth noting that just last week, the government had informed the public that Justice (R) Faqir Muhammad had been appointed as the new chairman of the Missing Persons Commission, replacing Justice (R) Javed Iqbal, who had been leading the commission since 2011. On January 22, during a hearing on missing persons cases, the Additional Attorney General informed the Supreme Court that the government had appointed Justice (R) Fakir Muhammad as the new head of the commission, succeeding Justice (R) Javed Iqbal. Media reports indicate that at the time of his appointment, Justice (R) Fakir Muhammad was receiving treatment at a hospital in Lahore.   from Paki...

A Chinese company has announced plans to install 3,000 electric vehicle (EV) charging stations across Pakistan, aiming to boost green energy adoption and create employment opportunities. A delegation from China’s ADM Group met with Sindh Energy Minister Nasir Hussain Shah and other stakeholders to discuss the expansion of EV infrastructure in the country. Speaking to the media, Nasir Shah confirmed that the charging stations would be set up in urban areas and along highways, with full support from the provincial government. Each charging station is expected to cost around Rs8 million, with an initial deposit of Rs1 million required for installation. The initiative is expected to generate around one million jobs, providing a major boost to Pakistan’s employment sector. ADM Group also plans to establish EV manufacturing plants in Pakistan and has already signed an agreement with the federal government for the development of charging infrastructure. If the company sets up production facil...

President of Pakistan Asif Ali Zardari has decided to delay signing the controversial Prevention of Electronic Crimes Act following concerns raised by journalists. The Parliamentary Reporter Association (PRA) expressed its opposition to the PECA Act through Maulana Fazlur Rehman, who reached out to the President. He urged the President to delay signing the bill until the concerns of journalists are adequately addressed, Express News reported. Sources say that President Asif Ali Zardari has delayed the bill for a while at the request of Maulana Fazlur Rehman, agreeing not to sign the PECA amendment bill until journalists' concerns are addressed. According to sources, Maulana Fazlur Rehman informed the PRA about his communication with the President regarding the bill, Express News reported. Sources also mention that discussions between the Federal Interior Minister Mohsin Naqvi and journalist organisations are under way before signing the PECA Act, and a meeting between Interior Mini...

Police have arrested four women involved in a major home burglary in Lahore’s Model Town, recovering Rs60 million in cash and stolen items worth an additional Rs30 million, officials said on Monday. The arrests were made under the supervision of DIG Organised Crime Imran Kishwar following directives from CCPO Lahore Bilal Siddique Kamyana. The stolen items include jewellery, mobile phones, luxury watches, perfumes, and foreign currency. The suspects, identified as Sana (wife of Humayun), Anam (wife of Nader Masih), Shahnaz (wife of Javed Masih), and Shaiba (daughter of Humayun), were detained during coordinated raids in Lahore, Kasur, and Multan. Police revealed that Sana and Shahnaz, who worked as domestic helpers, orchestrated the theft with assistance from Anam and Shaiba. Investigations further disclosed that Sana had a prior criminal record. CCPO Kamyana commended the Organised Crime Unit (OCU) team for their swift action, awarding officers with certificates and cash prizes during...

The Senate approved the Prevention of Electronic Crimes (PECA) (Amendment) Bill 2025 and the Digital Nation Pakistan Bill 2024 on Tuesday, amid a walkout from journalists and protests from opposition members. The bill was presented by Minister for Industries and Production, Rana Tanveer Hussain, on behalf of Interior Minister Mohsin Naqvi. The PECA Act was already approved by the National Assembly and the Senate's Interior Committee earlier. A majority vote also passed the Digital Nation Pakistan Bill 2025. During the session, Defence and Aviation Minister Khawaja Asif discussed the revival of smaller airports, saying that Chitral’s airport is now operational. He also mentioned that Pakistan International Airlines (PIA) was improving, with flights resuming to smaller airports and new aircraft being procured. PIA's revival was acknowledged, and the government is working on opening new routes, including those to Chitral and northern regions. Senator Saifullah Abro raised concerns...

A car parked outside a house in Karachi's Shah Faisal Colony was stolen within seconds, with CCTV footage of the incident now making rounds on social media. The theft occurred in Alfalah Society, where two motorcycle-riding suspects executed the crime with speed and coordination, Express News reported. In the footage, one suspect can be seen skilfully unlocking the car door and starting the vehicle in mere moments before driving off. The car owner, Atiq Ahmed, lodged a case at Shah Faisal Police Station, stating the theft took place on January 24. Ahmed, who drives a taxi through a transport app, revealed that the vehicle was essential for his livelihood. The police have transferred the case to the Anti-Vehicle Lifting Cell (AVLC) for further investigation. Authorities are examining the footage to trace the culprits.   from Pakistan News, Latest News Pakistan, Pakistan Headline | The Express Tribune https://ift.tt/WcbfLvi

The Islamabad High Court has scheduled the hearing of Khawar Maneka's appeal against the acquittal of Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) founder Imran Khan and wife Bushra Bibi in the iddat case for Monday. Justice Azam Khan, recently appointed to the Islamabad High Court, will preside over the hearing, Express News reported. Maneka had challenged the decision issued by an additional sessions judge on 13 July 2024, which acquitted the couple in the case. The appeal calls for the annulment of the lower court's verdict. On July 13, 2024, the additional sessions judge had acquitted Imran Khan and Bushra Bibi of charges related to their alleged marriage during Bushra Bibi’s iddat (a waiting period prescribed by Islamic law after a woman's divorce or husband's death). Previously, the district and sessions court in Islamabad overturned the seven-year prison sentence handed down to Imran Khan and Bushra Bibi, granting them an honourable acquittal in the case. During the hearing, S...

Jamaat-e-Islami (JI) has announced a nationwide protest on January 31 over the issue of Independent Power Producers (IPPs). During a press conference in Karachi, JI chef Hafiz Naeem-ur-Rehman, stated that protests would be held simultaneously across the country on January 31. He questioned why the public had not received any relief if the IPPs were benefiting from the agreements. He added that the government claimed negotiations had been completed with 17 IPPs, but Jamaat-e-Islami has been the voice of the people in addressing their concerns. The party also rejected the increase in lawmakers' salaries. Reaffirming the party's stance, he pointed out that parliamentary salaries had been raised by 140%, while Jamaat-e-Islami continues to work for the Palestinian cause. He emphasised that Pakistan must take a proactive role in the restoration of Gaza. Hafiz Naeem-ur-Rehman also remarked that the government must act swiftly in the current geopolitical situation and exert pressure on...

The Supreme Court of Pakistan will announce its verdict on the contempt of court case against Additional Registrar tomorrow. The decision, reserved by a two-member bench comprising Justice Mansoor Ali Shah and Justice Aqeel Abbasi, pertains to alleged violations involving the scheduling of bench powers cases. Previous Thursday, the Supreme Court concluded hearings in the bench powers case, with Justice Mansoor Ali Shah remarking that prima facie, a two-member judicial committee had overlooked a judicial order. While the court acknowledged it could issue contempt notices, it refrained from doing so. The contempt proceedings stemmed from an intra-court appeal where the Additional Registrar alleged that dates for hearings were altered in official orders. Initially scheduled for January 27, the hearing date was reportedly moved to January 16, during which a judge recused himself from the bench. The Additional Registrar, in his appeal, argued that he was made a scapegoat, citing procedu...

At least one person was killed and seven injured in an explosion near a passenger bus traveling from Khuzdar to Rawalpindi on Sunday, officials said. The blast occurred on the M-8 Motorway when a passenger bus travelling from Khuzdar to Rawalpindi passed by an explosives-laden vehicle, Express News reported. Out of the 13 passengers onboard, eight sustained injuries, with one succumbing to their wounds. Authorities have shifted the body to the Combined Military Hospital (CMH), while the injured are receiving treatment at Trauma Centre Khuzdar. Levies officials confirmed that the explosives were planted in a stationary vehicle on the roadside, strategically targeting the passenger bus. No group has claimed responsibility for the attack so far. Authorities are investigating the attack, and enhanced security measures are expected to be implemented in the coming days. The incident comes amid a surge in violence in Balochistan and Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, where militant activities have inten...

The Civil Aviation Authority (CAA) Officers Association has raised concerns about poor cleanliness and maintenance at Karachi's Jinnah International Airport, calling it a breach of international standards. In a letter addressed to the Director General of Pakistan Airports Authority and the Director General of Civil Aviation, the association pointed out the lack of proper upkeep at the airport, including over 100 neglected trees that have withered due to mismanagement, Express News reported. The letter also highlighted piles of garbage in the airport's parking areas, despite contractors being paid millions for maintenance. "Despite significant expenditures, the airport fails to meet international cleanliness standards, tarnishing the image of the Airports Authority," the letter stated. The association also pointed to stains from chewing tobacco on airport premises, further underscoring the neglect in cleanliness protocols. Passengers arriving from domestic and internat...

President Asif Ali Zardari conferred the prestigious Sitara-i-Imtiaz award on Asif Bashir in recognition of his extraordinary services in public service during a special investiture ceremony held at Aiwan-e-Sadr. The ceremony was attended by members of parliament and other dignitaries. As stated in the citation read out at the ceremony, Asif Bashir, a Computer Operator at the Deputy Commissioner’s office in Peshawar, was selected by the federal Ministry of Religious Affairs to serve as a Moavin-i-Hajj (Hajj Assistant) during the previous year’s Hajj operation. During the Hajj, the temperature reached an extreme 51.8 degrees Celsius, causing severe difficulties for several pilgrims. Despite the harsh conditions, the Moavineen provided invaluable assistance to Pakistani and international pilgrims, often going unrecognized for their efforts. Asif Bashir’s role was particularly crucial when he served in Mina, where the tents for pilgrims from Pakistan, India, and other countries were set u...

Pakistan People's Party (PPP) Chairman Bilawal Bhutto Zardari has denied speculation about the party joining the federal cabinet and dismissed reports of his attendance at US President Donald Trump's inauguration. Speaking to journalists after meeting Senate Chairman in Islamabad, Bilawal said, “The news about attending the inauguration came from the media. They should be asked about it. I might visit the US for breakfast and meet some friends; this has been a tradition since my mother’s time.” Clarifying PPP’s position regarding joining Shehbaz cabinet, Bilawal stated, “The People's Party is not joining the cabinet. I am neither a minister nor hold any government position. Therefore, my US visit will have no official engagements.” Bilawal’s comments come amid ongoing speculation about PPP’s political strategy and its potential role in the coalition government. Previously, Chairman PPP strongly criticised the Pakistan Muslim League - Nawaz (PMNL-N)-led federal government fo...

The Islamabad High Court (IHC) was informed on Friday that former US President Joe Biden had rejected Dr. Aafia Siddiqui's mercy petition. IHC bench, headed by Justice Sardar Ejaz Ishaq Khan, heard the petition regarding Dr. Aafia Siddiqui's release and return to Pakistan. During the proceedings, the petitioner’s lawyer, Imran Shafiq, revealed that the United States had also turned down a proposed prisoner swap arrangement with Pakistan.  The court was further informed that the Ministry of Foreign Affairs had submitted a report responding to the court’s queries, including information about the foreign visits of the Prime Minister and Foreign Minister. It was noted, however, that the Pakistani ambassador in the US had not attended meetings regarding Dr. Aafia’s case. Expressing concern over the lack of progress, Justice Sardar Ejaz remarked, “The US is showing us our worth." The judge also criticized the US administration, drawing a comparison between Biden’s pardoning of ...

Punjab Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz Sharif chaired a special meeting to review recommendations for the launch of the ‘Nigahban Ramadan Relief Package,’ aimed at supporting underprivileged families across the province during Ramadan. CM Nawaz emphasised that the relief package is both a right for the needy and a government responsibility. She also highlighted that the distribution should be dignified, with no long queues for the public. Citizens can register for the package either online through the PSER portal or at over 4,000+ registration centers across the province, located at union councils and municipal offices. The deadline for registration is set for February 15. The online registration process requires applicants to provide personal details and create a login password for future use. The launch of the online portal and helpline aims to ensure transparency and accessibility for all eligible families. Eligibility criteria: Who is eligible? To qualify for the Nigahban Ramadan Relie...

Karachi's Jinnah International Airport is grappling with an escalating stray dog problem, with reports of dogs now roaming near the airport’s main entrances, exits, and parking areas. According to sources, stray dogs were initially confined to the tarmac and general aviation areas. However, their presence has expanded to critical passenger zones, raising serious safety concerns, Express News reported. Passengers have reported incidents of dogs attacking vehicles and creating chaos near the terminal. “The situation worsens at night when the internal parking lot becomes a haven for stray dogs,” an airport official stated. Karachi Airport Authority has reportedly reached out to Edhi officials for assistance in controlling the issue. The presence of stray dogs on airport premises violates international civil aviation safety standards, potentially endangering flight operations and passenger safety. Efforts to curb the problem have so far been inadequate, leaving travellers increasingly ...

Former prime minister and Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) founder Imran Khan has ended negotiations with the government over its failure to form a judicial commission within the agreed seven-day timeframe, according to PTI Chairman Barrister Gohar Ali Khan. PTI chairman Barrister Gohar told reporters after a prison meeting that Khan decided to halt talks as government remains inactive on forming commissions related to the events of May 9 and November 26. "The government committed to forming a commission within seven days but failed to deliver," Gohar said. Meanwhile, Rana Sanaullah, an adviser to the prime minister, stated that the government’s negotiating team would soon provide a written response to PTI’s demands. Opposition leader Omar Ayub Khan had also warned that without concrete steps on the commissions, further negotiations would be futile. from Pakistan News, Latest News Pakistan, Pakistan Headline | The Express Tribune https://ift.tt/n8qpWFA

Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) leaders have strongly criticised the Digital Nation Pakistan Bill, claiming it undermines constitutional rights and sets a dangerous precedent for surveillance and control. Speaking to the media, opposition leader Omar Ayub warned that the bill could target those advocating for constitutional supremacy. Ayub highlighted the PTI’s protests against the bill in parliament, asserting that the government has failed to address key opposition concerns. The Digital Nation Pakistan Bill includes provisions granting authorities extensive access to citizens’ data. Ayub alleged that the government is using the bill to suppress dissent and curtail freedoms under the guise of regulation. “This is an attack on the fundamental rights guaranteed by the Constitution,” he said. Barrister Gohar, another PTI leader, condemned the hasty legislative process, pointing out that several laws were passed in under 10 minutes during a mere 88 parliamentary sessions in the past year. ...

The Islamabad High Court has reduced the death sentences of two convicts in the Osama Satti murder case to life imprisonment while acquitting three others. The court announced its verdict on appeals filed by the five convicts. Justices Mohsin Akhtar Kayani and Sardar Ejaz Ishaq Khan presided over the bench that issued the decision. Convicts Iftikhar Ahmed and Muhammad Mustafa had their death penalties commuted to life sentences, while Saeed Ahmed, Shakeel Ahmed, and Mudassir Mukhtar were acquitted of all charges. The case involved the fatal shooting of Osama Satti, a young man killed by police officers. Earlier, the convicted officers had challenged their sentences, leading to the high court’s revised ruling. On January 2, 2021, at around 2 am, Osama had gone to drop his friend in Sector H-11. When he was returning, the police officials had intercepted his vehicle in Sector G-10, Srinagar Highway and fired at him from all sides. The police claimed that they had tried to stop a susp...

A suspect who abducted a child from a hospital was apprehended with the help of Safe City cameras, Express News reported. According to the spokesperson for Safe City, the suspect who took the child from the hospital was arrested. Using Safe City cameras, the child was recovered within hours in Gujranwala. The child’s father had lodged a complaint that an unknown person had abducted the child from the hospital. Upon receiving the complaint, the police began searching for the suspect using footage from the Safe City cameras. By tracking the footage, they identified the suspect. The cameras showed the suspect riding a bike while carrying the newborn. Video evidence was shared with the relevant police, who acted swiftly and arrested the suspect. Within hours, the police successfully found the newborn and returned him safely to his father. Earlier, seven-year-old Sarim was subjected to rape and murder according to initial reports from police surgeon. The revelation has emerged in the case o...

The Sindh High Court’s Constitutional Bench has ordered the Sindh Building Control Authority (SBCA) and other relevant departments to submit a report within two weeks regarding commercial activities in a residential building on Burns Road. The hearing, led by Justice KK Agha, addressed a petition concerning commercial activities in a residential building in the Burns Road area. During the proceedings, the SBCA's lawyer informed the court that illegal shops had been sealed, but some individuals had reopened the shops by removing the seals. Despite re-sealing, the seals were again broken, and the shops were reopened. Legal cases are now being registered against these individuals. The petitioner’s lawyer argued that the court had previously ordered SBCA to stop commercial activities in the residential building. He also raised concerns that the building, which is part of an archaeological site, was being damaged by the construction of shops, posing a risk of collapse. The court instruc...

Karachi’s water supply has been severely impacted after a power breakdown caused an explosion at the Dhabeji pumping station, resulting in two major pipelines rupturing. According to reports, a 72-inch diameter pipeline (No. 5) burst, halting water delivery to several areas of Karachi, Express News reported. These include Landhi, Korangi, Shah Latif Town, Korangi, Town Ship, Gulshan-e-Iqbal, Gulshan-e-Hadeed, and Malir, among others, which are now facing severe water shortages. The Power Division has taken note of the incident and instructed K-Electric to take immediate action to restore electricity supply to the pumping station. A spokesperson from the Power Division stated that water supply to Karachi must be resumed at all costs, emphasising the need for K-Electric to upgrade the water supply system and prevent such incidents in the future. On the other hand, a K-Electric spokesperson assured that the electricity supply to all major pumping stations, including Dhabeji, was functioni...

Pakistan Muslim League-Nawaz (PML-N) President Nawaz Sharif has provided guidance to Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif regarding negotiations with Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI), stressing that the country’s national interest should be the primary focus. According to Express News, the two leaders met on Sunday for a meeting that lasted two hours, which also included Punjab Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz and other senior party leaders. The discussion revolved around the current political situation, the ongoing talks with PTI, and the nation's economic stability. Nawaz highlighted the importance of unity in the country, urging that all political factions work together for the greater good. "For the sake of the nation, we must all come together," he said, reinforcing the need for a united front. PM Shehbaz briefed Nawaz on the progress of negotiations with PTI, sharing that the country's economic situation was improving, and the overall national conditions were moving in a posi...

Lieutenant General SM Kamrul Hassan, Principal Staff Officer (PSO) of Bangladesh's Armed Forces Division, visited senior officials of the Pakistan Navy on Sunday to discuss regional security and bilateral defence cooperation. General Hassan met with Commander Pakistan Fleet, Rear Admiral Abdul Munib; Commander Coast, Rear Admiral Faisal Amin; and Managing Director of Karachi Shipyard & Engineering Works (KS&EW), Rear Admiral Salman Ilyas. The meetings were aimed at strengthening professional ties and addressing matters of mutual interest, according to a statement from the Directorate General Public Relations (Pak Navy). During his visit, General Hassan also toured Pakistan Navy ships and units. The discussions focused on enhancing regional maritime security and deepening the defence collaboration between Pakistan and Bangladesh. Potential areas of cooperation were explored, including joint military exercises, reciprocal visits, and training exchange programmes. The visit is...

Jamiat Ulema-e-Islam-Fazl (JUI-F) chief, Maulana Fazlur Rehman, stated that both the establishment and Western powers have been actively working against religious seminaries since the creation of Pakistan. He also claimed that preparations are underway for a military operation in Kurram, Express News reported. Speaking at a graduation ceremony at Jamia Islamia Babuzi in Mardan, he said religious institutions have been under pressure since Pakistan’s creation. The JUI-F leader was the chief guest at the event, which was also attended by party leaders, including Ata-ul-Haq Darwish, District Amir Maulana Amanat Shah Haqani, Dr. Syed Ahmad Binori, head of Jamia Binoria Karachi, and Mufti Hamad Yousafzai. While addressing the ceremony, Maulana Fazlur Rehman said that while he is not against new technology, it should always be used for the benefit of humanity. He added that Western culture continues to target religious parties. He further remarked that since the creation of Pakistan, both th...

Pakistan’s Foreign Office has released a list of 21 Pakistani nationals who survived a boat accident off the coast of Morocco. According to the Foreign Office spokesperson, verified reports confirm that 21 Pakistanis were among those rescued in the maritime operation near the town of Dakhla. The Pakistani embassy in Rabat responded immediately, providing essential aid, including food, water, medicines, and clothing, to those affected. Medical teams are also assisting in the relief efforts. The embassy and the Pakistani government remain in contact with Moroccan authorities to oversee the situation and ensure necessary support for the survivors. The names of the rescued individuals include Mudassir Hussain, Waseem Khalid, Muhammad Khaliq, Abdul Ghaffar, Gul Shamir, Tanveer Ahmed, Muhammad Abbas Kazmi, Ghulam Mustafa, Imran Iqbal, Shoaib Zafar, Ali Hasan, Muhammad Asif, and Bilal Iqbal. Morever, Deputy Prime Minister (DPM) and Foreign Minister, Ishaq Dar, directed the government to provi...

The Pakistani government has successfully transitioned 100 federal schools to solar power, marking a significant step towards sustainable energy in the education sector. The Federal Directorate of Education (FDE) completed the solarisation project in collaboration with the National Radio and Telecommunication Corporation, Express News reported. The initiative includes backup battery systems to ensure uninterrupted power supply. Federal Secretary for Education Mohiuddin Wani called the achievement a reflection of the government’s commitment to efficiency, sustainability, and innovation. He said the installation of solar panels would not only reduce carbon emissions but also provide schools with a reliable and eco-friendly energy source. Mohiuddin Wani added that while this year’s project covered 100 schools, plans are in place to transition the remaining federal educational institutions to solar power in the next financial year. Last week, Punjab Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz made several...

The body of a seven-year-old boy who had been missing for 11 days was found in an underground water tank near his home in Karachi’s North Karachi area, police said on Saturday. The child, identified as Sarim, was last seen nearly two weeks ago, prompting extensive search efforts by police and family members, Express News reported. His body was recovered from a water tank with a makeshift cardboard cover, raising questions about the circumstances of his death. Police have launched an investigation to determine whether Sarim fell into the tank accidentally or if foul play was involved. Residents of the neighbourhood expressed shock, stating that law enforcement had checked the tank twice during the search but failed to find any sign of the child. They believe his body may have remained submerged and surfaced over time. Authorities said there were no initial signs of assault or foul play, but a post-mortem examination will be conducted at Abbasi Shaheed Hospital to determine the cause of ...

The Punjab government recently launched the Asaan Karobar Finance scheme, offering interest-free loans to Small and Medium Enterprises (SMEs). Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz launched the Punjab Asaan Karobar finance and card schemes to promote business activities in the province. Addressing the inauguration ceremony, she said, "Under the Asaan Karobar Finance Scheme, interest-free loans of Rs1 million to Rs30 million will be provided." The loan will be repaid in easy installments The chief minister said land would also be provided at highly subsidised rates to start small businesses. She said the finance scheme was the first programme in the history of the province under which interest-free loans of up to Rs30 million would be given. "There is no need to immediately get any NOC, licence or plan approved to obtain a loan. Get a loan today and start your business tomorrow. These interest-free loans will be given through the Bank of Punjab," she said. Here’s a step-by-ste...

Punjab Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz said on Friday that Al-Qadir University has now come under her control following the £190 million Al-Qadir Trust case verdict. Speaking at a ceremony in Okara, Punjab chief minister also announced that scholarships would be provided to students of the Al-Qadir university, reinforcing her commitment to enhancing education in the region. Maryam Nawaz said that the university would now be part of the government's initiatives, with a focus on providing scholarships to deserving students. "The country needs unity, not hatred; it requires peace, not unrest," she said, reflecting on the current political climate. She also criticised the previous leadership for fueling violence and unrest, stating, "Youngsters were encouraged to attack police forces and blindly believe everything they saw on social media." Maryam also highlighted the political persecution her family has faced, mentioning that her father, Nawaz Sharif, served the countr...

The Federal Investigation Agency (FIA) Immigration team foiled a major human trafficking operation at Islamabad Airport on Friday. The authorities arrested five individuals, including a 16-year-old child, attempting to travel to SaFive Suspects Arrested in Lahore Over Human Trafficking Operation Linked to Umrah Visas in Islamabadudi Arabia on Umrah visas as part of a broader human smuggling scheme. According to an FIA spokesperson, the suspects—Miraj Khan, Usman Khan, Asad Ali, Murtaza Ali, and the minor—had planned to travel to Saudi Arabia under the pretense of performing Umrah. From there, they intended to reach Libya and subsequently attempt to reach Italy by sea. The suspects had allegedly paid 3.9 million Pakistani rupees each to agents Wajid Khan and Faisal Khan for facilitating their travel arrangements. During the search, two Egyptian visas were also recovered from the suspects. Initial investigations suggest that the remaining visas were supposed to be provided by sub-agents ...

A District and Sessions court in Lahore has charged two accused in the Ameer Balaj Tipu murder case. Additional Sessions Judge Asad Hafeez heard the case and charged the accused, Haroon and Sohail Mehmood. The court has summoned witnesses for testimony on February 11. Gogi Butt, Teefi Butt, and Bilawal have been declared absconders and excluded from the case. The police station in Chuhung had registered the case against the accused. On February 19, 2024, Ameer Balaj Tipu, the son of Tipu Truckanwala, was killed in a shooting at a wedding ceremony on Lahore Multan Road. Two others were injured. The gunman of Amir Balaj Tipu fired back, killing the attacker, Muzaffar Hussain, at the scene. The attack occurred when Ameer Balaj Tipu was leaving the wedding venue while people were busy taking selfies with him. Earlier, Lahore police uncovered startling details in the murder case of Javed Butt, brother-in-law of Teefi Butt, the prime suspect in the Ameer Balaj murder case. According to DIG O...

Discussing developments in the £190 million case, Senator Faisal Vawda has predicted that Imran Khan would likely be convicted in it. “While dates may change, the verdict will not,” he said. The Senator also stated that a scandal will emerge on January 22, warning that failure to address it could result in legal action and imprisonment for those involved. Speaking on a private television programme, Vawda stated, “I am part of this scandal myself. If it proceeds, we will challenge it legally. Should the government attempt to push it through by force, it will have to face jail.” He also expressed doubts about the outcome of negotiations between the government and Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI), claiming that the talks expected to gain momentum after 20 January may not yield positive results for the party. Criticising PTI’s past decisions, Vawda highlighted the heroin case against Rana Sanaullah, calling it a “petty and unjustified” move. “I opposed it strongly,” he said, adding that the ...

Pakistan Navy Ship (PNS) Yamama has completed a visit to the Turkish ports of Gölcük and Aksas, aimed at strengthening naval cooperation between the two countries. Upon its arrival at the ports, PNS Yamama was warmly welcomed by senior officials from the Pakistani Embassy in Turkey, along with high-ranking officers from the Turkish Navy. The visit marked a significant moment in bilateral relations as both nations worked to foster deeper ties. Vice Admiral Ibrahim Ozden Kocer, Deputy Commander of the Turkish Naval Fleet, also visited PNS Yamama. During the visit, he was given a detailed briefing on the ship’s operational capabilities and features. A key highlight of the visit was the naval exercise "Mavi Vatan" (Blue Homeland), conducted between PNS Yamama and Turkish Navy ships. The exercise aimed to enhance cooperation, improve joint operational capabilities, and deepen the strategic partnership between the two navies. The visit will further promote diplomatic and naval rela...

Sindh Chief Minister Murad Ali Shah has written a letter to the Prime Minister, protesting against the National Highway Authority’s (NHA) allocation of minimal funds for Sindh. According to Express News, the CM expressed concern in the letter, stating that it is alarming that the NHA has allocated less than 5% of its budget for Sindh. He accused the NHA of injustice in the Annual Development Program (ADP) for the province. CM Sindh highlighted that 38.65% of the budget is allocated for Punjab’s 33 projects, while only 4.34% is reserved for Sindh’s six projects. Similarly, 17.59% of funds are allocated for 30 projects in Khyber-Pakhtunkhwa, and 23.87% for 22 projects in Balochistan. The CM emphasised that constructing the Hyderabad-Sukkur Motorway is crucial for the nation’s development. He urged the PM to direct the NHA to start work on the Hyderabad-Sukkur M6 Motorway and to include it in the ADP. Meanwhile, the mayor of Karachi, Murtaza Wahab, stated that limited resources are the ci...

Bushra Bibi, the wife of former prime minister Imran Khan, conveyed her lack of confidence in the country's legal system during a hearing in an anti-terrorism court (ATC) on Tuesday. The case, presided over by Judge Tahir Abbas Sipra, relates to allegations that a vehicle was driven into Rangers' personnel. During the hearing, the judge told Bushra that legal protocols had been followed, stating, "It has taken some time, but legal protocols have been followed." In response, Bushra Bibi replied, "That is not an issue, but we have lost faith in the courts." Judge Sipra disagreed with her statement, assuring, "It is not like that everywhere. The justice system, despite its flaws, is functioning. If it collapses, society itself will cease to exist. You have appeared before me in other hearings as well." Bushra further elaborated on her concerns, sharing a troubling experience during a previous trial. She recounted an incident where a judge's blood ...

The security forces have killed eight terrorists in two separate operations across Khyber-Pakhtunkhwa (K-P), according to a statement from the Inter-Services Public Relations (ISPR) on Tuesday. The military's media wing reported that the operations took place between January 12 and 13. The first operation was an intelligence-based raid in Tank district, where security forces successfully targeted a location of the outlawed Tehreek-e-Taliban Pakistan (TTP) group, commonly referred to as the khwarij. During the operation, six terrorists were killed, ISPR stated. In a second engagement in Khyber district's Tirah Valley, security forces neutralised two more terrorists associated with the TTP. The ISPR added that sanitisation operations are ongoing in the region to clear any remaining militants. The security forces have vowed to continue their efforts to eradicate terrorism and restore peace in the country. Earlier, Security forces killed 27 terrorists during an intelligence-based o...

Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) leader Shaukat Yousafzai has warned that the ongoing negotiations between the PTI and the ruling government might come to an end if there is no progress on the judicial commission by 31 January. Yousafzai expressed his concerns in the wake of the repeated postponement of the £190 million reference case, which had been deferred for the third time, leading to growing dissatisfaction within the PTI ranks. Speaking to the media, he criticised the delays in the case verdict, which he said were damaging the credibility of Pakistan’s judicial system. Shaukat Yousafzai accused the government of using the judicial process to buy time, stating that the ruling party was apparently seeking an “NRO” (National Reconciliation Ordinance)—an amnesty deal aimed at protecting certain political figures from corruption charges. Yousafzai reiterated PTI’s stance, emphasising that the party would neither seek nor accept such a deal. The PTI leader further suggested that the ong...

Senator Faisal Vawda has spoken out against Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) Chairman Imran Khan, accusing him of being warned about the consequences of his actions, including legal ramifications and potential jail time. Speaking at a press conference at the Karachi Press Club, Vawda recalled advising Imran Khan about the 190 million-pound deal approval, saying, “I warned Imran Khan that a case would be filed, and he would face a prison sentence. I had already predicted that this case would result in a penalty.” Vawda also criticised delays in legal proceedings, claiming PTI’s leadership had been propagating misinformation. “There is a punishment for every crime. No one will accept that others benefited from this; you will have to face the consequences," he added. He further discussed the internal rifts within PTI, claiming that Imran Khan’s own party members were plotting against him. “For two and a half years, I have been warning that Khan’s relatives are conspiring against him in...

The removal of bunkers in the conflict-affected Kurram district is set to begin today (Sunday), following the directives of Deputy Commissioner Ashfaq Khan. Deputy Commissioner Kurram, Ashfaq Khan, stated that, as per the Kohat peace agreement, all bunkers in the district will be demolished, and weapons will be surrendered by February 1. He added that during the initial phase, one village from each side will see bunkers demolished. Security personnel will accompany the teams to ensure safety during the operations. Ashfaq Khan mentioned that relief supplies would be dispatched following security clearance. He also noted that Section 144 remains enforced in Kurram, where sit-ins continue at three different locations. It is worth mentioning that orders for the demolition of bunkers in Kurram were issued yesterday following the decisions made in the provincial apex committee meeting and agreements reached between the parties involved. According to media reports, the Deputy Commissioner iss...

Nobel Peace Prize winner Malala Yousafzai urged Muslim leaders on Sunday to avoid recognising the Taliban's government in Afghanistan and to demonstrate genuine leadership by standing up against their policies limiting education for women and girls. Addressing a summit on girls' education in Islamabad, Malala firmly stated, "Do not legitimise them." “Simply put, the Taliban do not see women as human beings. They cloak their crimes in cultural and religious justification. These policies are a violation of human rights and have no basis in Islamic teachings,” she said. Malala Yousafzai called on Muslim leaders to demonstrate true leadership by refusing to legitimise the Taliban government. “As Muslim leaders, now is the time to raise your voices and use your power to oppose such injustices,” she added. She also strongly criticised Israel’s actions in Gaza, accusing it of dismantling the region’s education system and committing human rights violations.         View...