2026

Pakistan

Kohistani Vows Crackdown on Anti-State Activities

ISLAMABAD — Kheal Das Kohistani, the Minister of State for Religious Affairs, has issued a stern warning to parties or groups involved in anti-state activities. Speaking to the media outside the Parliament House, he announced that stringent legal action will be taken against those with proven evidence of such activities. Government’s Commitment to National Security Kohistani emphasized the government’s unwavering commitment to national security. He assured that the government will provide robust support to the country’s armed forces. He stressed that individuals involved in these activities will not escape accountability. State’s Vigilance and Stance Kohistani reiterated the state’s heightened vigilance and firm stance against threats to national stability. He confirmed the government’s determination to counteract measures compromising national integrity.

Pakistan

Siblings Arrested for House Robbery in Rawalpindi

RAWALPINDI — Police have arrested a brother and sister in connection with a house robbery in Rawalpindi. The theft occurred at a woman’s residence five days ago. The arrested individuals include a domestic worker employed at the victim’s home and her brother. Police Investigation On Saturday, a police spokesperson revealed the siblings were identified and apprehended after a detailed investigation. This process involved both technical surveillance and information from human intelligence sources. The case highlights the integration of advanced techniques in local law enforcement in Pakistan. Incident Details Authorities allege the siblings carefully planned and executed the robbery at the residence where the sister was employed. Specific details regarding the stolen items and the victim’s identity have not been disclosed. Privacy concerns and the integrity of the ongoing investigation are being given priority.

Pakistan

Police Recover Seven Stolen Motorcycles, Four Suspects Arrested

RAWALPINDI — Police operations against criminal gangs are gaining momentum, resulting in the arrest of four suspects linked to motorcycle theft and other crimes. Successful Crackdown by Pirwadhai Police The Pirwadhai Police have successfully dismantled two criminal gangs in their area. This action underscores local law enforcement’s dedication to fighting crime. Stolen Motorcycles Recovered A police spokesperson reported the capture of a two-member gang specializing in motorcycle theft last Saturday. Authorities recovered seven stolen motorcycles and other stolen property during the operation. Ongoing Crime Reduction Efforts This crackdown is part of wider initiatives to reduce street crimes and robbery in Rawalpindi. Besides recovering motorcycles, police seized cash and weapons from the suspects. Commitment to Future Operations Law enforcement expresses strong determination to continue operations against criminal gangs to ensure public safety and security.

Pakistan

CDA, Bangladesh to Boost Municipal Cooperation

ISLAMABAD — The Capital Development Authority (CDA) and Bangladesh have reached an agreement to strengthen municipal cooperation. They are exploring potential sister-city relations between Islamabad and Dhaka. Significant Meeting in Islamabad A significant meeting occurred between CDA Chairman and Chief Commissioner Islamabad, Sohail Ashraf, and the Bangladesh High Commissioner. Their discussions highlighted collaborative efforts to enhance municipal management. Objectives of Cooperation The parties aim to exchange experiences and strategies for urban development. There is optimism about the potential benefits this cooperation can bring to both cities. Enhancing Bilateral Relations This initiative is part of a broader effort to strengthen bilateral relations between Pakistan and Bangladesh, promoting mutual development and understanding at the local government level.

Business

Pakistan, ADB Sign $700 Million Loan for Insurance Reforms

ISLAMABAD — Pakistan and the Asian Development Bank (ADB) have signed a $700 million policy-based loan agreement aimed at reforming Pakistan’s insurance sector. Insurance Transformation Program Details This loan, part of the Insurance Transformation Program Sub-Program 1, includes $250 million on concessional terms, highlighting ADB’s commitment to Pakistan. Concessional Loan Terms The concessional terms are designed to ease Pakistan’s financial burden and effectively support reform initiatives. Asian Development Bank’s Support Muhammad Humair Karim Kidwai, Secretary of the Economic Affairs Division, thanked ADB for its ongoing support, recognizing ADB as a crucial development partner for Pakistan. Goals of the Insurance Reforms The reforms focus on enhancing the regulatory environment in the insurance industry. These efforts aim to boost growth and ensure financial stability within Pakistan’s economy. Impact on Pakistan’s Economy Enhancement of regulatory frameworks Promotion of economic growth Strengthening of financial stability This agreement marks an important step toward achieving sustained economic development in Pakistan.

Pakistan

CCD Lahore Reports 58% Decrease in Major Crimes

LAHORE — The Crime Control Department (CCD) Punjab has announced a notable 58% decrease in serious and organized crimes in Lahore during its first year of operation. This reduction is detailed in the CCD Lahore performance report released on Saturday, attributing the decline to their comprehensive operations. Major Crime Reduction Efforts The report emphasizes the CCD’s focused initiatives to address major criminal activities throughout the city. These efforts have significantly improved the safety and security of Lahore’s residents. The department’s strategic approach is pivotal in these achievements. Commitment to Enhanced Crime-fighting The CCD remains dedicated to intensifying operations to combat crime more effectively. By advancing their crime-fighting strategies, the department aims to maintain and further reduce crime rates in the coming years. This continuous commitment highlights their determination to ensure Lahore remains safe.

Pakistan

Minister Discusses Safety Concerns at Provincial Meeting

LAHORE — Provincial Minister for Housing and Urban Development, Bilal Yasin, highlighted critical safety concerns following recent incidents of children falling into open manholes. These issues were addressed during a meeting he chaired via video link, centered on the Punjab Development Plan. Enhanced Safety Measures Minister Yasin emphasized the urgent requirement for an improved monitoring system to effectively tackle safety challenges. He issued a final warning to responsible officers, demanding immediate action to prevent further accidents. The minister stressed that ensuring public safety in urban areas is the department’s foremost responsibility. Infrastructure Commitment The meeting discussions reaffirmed the government’s pledge to enhance infrastructure and ensure resident safety. Officials were directed to implement substantial measures swiftly. This initiative underscores a profound commitment to improving public safety and advancing urban development, following the government’s directives.

Pakistan

Commissioner Urges Swift Completion of Sargodha Development Projects

SARGODHA — Commissioner Hafiz Shaukat Ali inspected the ongoing city beautification projects in Sargodha on Saturday. He stressed the need for timely completion, emphasizing adherence to strict quality standards. Development Efforts Reviewed The commissioner reviewed progress at several locations, including City Road. Key focus areas included: Road restoration Footpath renovation Installation of streetlights Improved sanitation arrangements Quality Assurance and Supervision Accompanied by senior departmental officials, Hafiz Shaukat Ali instructed officers to maintain high-quality standards in all work. He cautioned against negligence in project execution, highlighting the importance of diligence. These efforts aim to create a cleaner and more organized environment for Sargodha residents. Strategic Urban Development The beautification initiative is part of a broader strategy to modernize and enhance urban spaces. Commissioner Ali underscored that urban development and public welfare are top priorities for the Punjab government, with resources fully allocated for regional improvement.

Sports

KP Launches Bikers Rally to Promote Tourism

PESHAWAR — The Khyber Pakhtunkhwa Culture and Tourism Authority, in collaboration with Peshawar Bikers, has launched a bikers rally to boost tourism in the area. On Saturday, over 30 bikers began their journey from Peshawar, heading towards the beautiful Siran Valley in Mansehra. Leadership and Objectives Spearheaded by Special Assistant for Tourism Malik Adeel Iqbal and directed by the Tourism Authority’s Director General Shahid Khan, the rally aims to: Promote Siran Valley and other emerging tourist sites in Mansehra Encourage adventure tourism within the region Support environmental initiatives such as tree planting and cleanliness campaigns The Journey and Destinations The bikers will traverse multiple routes to their destination. Upon arrival in Siran Valley, a tent village will be set up. This installation aims to showcase Khyber Pakhtunkhwa’s stunning and lesser-known spots. The initiative targets both national and international audiences, enhancing interest and engagement in the region.

World

Gilani Highlights Job Potential in Tourism, Hospitality Sectors

MULTAN — Chairman Senate Syed Yousaf Raza Gilani emphasized on Saturday that skilled manpower is more crucial than academic degrees for success in today’s global economy. Speaking at the College of Tourism and Hotel Management’s convocation, Gilani encouraged graduates to acquire the practical skills necessary for employment. Importance of Practical Skills Gilani highlighted that individuals with high academic qualifications might struggle without expertise. Conversely, those with practical training secure opportunities both domestically and abroad. He congratulated graduates, their parents, and faculty, expressing confidence in their positive societal contributions. Opportunities in Key Sectors The Senate chairman identified vast opportunities in Pakistan’s tourism, hospitality, aviation services, and IT sectors. He emphasized the country’s cultural heritage and scenic sites as catalysts for tourism-led growth. Highlighting the international demand for skilled Pakistani workers, he noted that Italy has over 10,500 job openings for trained professionals. Drivers of Tourism Growth Pakistan’s rich cultural heritage Scenic sites and natural beauty Growing international demand for skilled workers Collaborations for Skill Development Gilani urged educational institutions to collaborate with organizations like Bait-ul-Mal to focus on skill development, enhancing job prospects. He praised Pakistan’s diplomatic efforts for improving the country’s image on a global scale. Institutional Support Ahmed Shafique and Waqas Raza also addressed the convocation, emphasizing their institution’s role in producing skilled professionals. The event concluded with the distribution of degrees and awards to the graduating students.

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