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Karachi Police arrest over 870 suspects, recover narcotics, weapons and stolen vehicles in last week

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KARACHI, Jul 28 (APP):In a major week-long crackdown against criminal elements, Karachi Police arrested more than 870 suspects, recovered over 79 kilograms of narcotics, seized 112 illegal weapons, and retrieved 38 stolen motorcycles and one four-wheeler.
According to the Karachi Police spokesperson on Monday, 20 armed encounters were reported during the week, resulting in the death of three robbers, injuries to 19, and the arrest of 33 suspects. Police also confiscated 26 firearms and eight motorcycles used in crimes during these confrontations.
In coordinated operations across the East, West, and South zones of the city, police arrested over 872 individuals for various criminal activities. The anti-narcotics campaign led to the seizure of large quantities of charas (hashish), ice/crystal meth, and heroin, collectively worth millions of rupees.
Weapons and ammunition used in street crimes were also recovered, and targeted raids led to the retrieval of dozens of snatched or stolen vehicles.

Lighting contest on I-Day

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GUJRAT, Jul 28 (APP):In connection with the 79th Independence Day of Pakistan and to commemorate the glorious victories of the Pakistan Armed Forces, the district administration has announced a building illumination competition to be held across Gujrat with national zeal and enthusiasm.
According to the Punjab government’s directives, buildings and homes across the district will be decorated with electric lights. The competition includes three categories. Private residential buildings, government offices and residences, commercial buildings, shops, plazas, and factories and outstanding entries in each category will be awarded prizes by the district administration on August 14.
Citizens have been urged to illuminate their homes, shops, and workplaces to express solidarity with the nation and celebrate freedom under the banner of unity.

Historical Haram Gate to serve as Heritage Cafe from next month

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MULTAN, Jul 28 (APP):A Heritage Cafe is going to be functional at the historical Haram Gate next month to showcase traditional Multani foods with cultured hospitality the City of Saints and mangoes is known for.
The novel initiative is the brainchild of Walled City Multan Authority (WCMA), to be operated under public private partnership. It will hopefully be inaugurated on Aug 1, however, if that does not happen due to unavoidable circumstances, then Aug 14, Independence Day, would be the most appropriate day for its opening, says Umair Ghazanfar, a spokesman for WCMA in Multan. Commissioner Multan Amir Kareem Khan is expected to inaugurate the facility at the monument.
The initiative would help WCMA resolve the issue of encroachments blocking the view of the 19th century monument, one of the six historical gates to the ancient walled city of Multan. It stands as a proud sentinel of centuries-old Islamic urbanization and Mughal architecture.
After the British annexation of Multan in the mid-19th century, the original gate was damaged but was later rebuilt in the latter half of the 1800s with pointed arches and double-story castigated towers.
In 2018, the monument was restored to its historical form with the help from Italian funding and expertise as part of the Multan Walled City Project that was aimed at preserving Multan’s heritage and promote cultural tourism.
Four traditional wooden carts have been developed by the authority to showcase traditional foods like Multani ‘Doli Roti, ‘Dal Moong’, famous Rabri ‘Kheer’ of Haram Gate as a traditional dessert, besides tea, coffee, cold drinks and Paan shop, Umair said. While people would be allowed to enjoy traditional food at seating arrangements near the historical gate, tourists from foreign countries and those who would avail WCMA’s ‘Cycle Rani’ ride facility for a tour to the Walled City would be allowed to enjoy breakfast with tea at the top of any of the two Harram Gate towers.

Pak-Turk friendship strengthened by shared values, humanitarian solidarity: Tarar

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ISLAMABAD, Jul 28 (APP):Federal Minister for Information and Broadcasting Attaullah Tarar on Monday hailed Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan as a visionary leader of the Muslim world, praising his unwavering commitment to global Muslim causes and the deep-rooted ties between Pakistan and Türkiye.
Speaking at the launch ceremony of the book “Recep Tayyip Erdogan, Tiger of Islamic World’ authored by Dr. Furqan Hameed, Minister Tarar paid tribute to President Erdogan’s political journey—from his transformative tenure as Mayor of Istanbul to his leadership of the Justice and Development Party (AKP).
  • Pak-Turk friendship strengthened by shared values, humanitarian solidarity: Tarar
He described Erdogan as a “people’s leader and an effective administrator,” whose governance continues to inspire admiration across the Muslim Ummah. The Minister praised President Erdogan’s grassroots leadership and his transformative tenure as Mayor of Istanbul. He highlighted Türkiye’s historic bond with Pakistan and Erdogan’s humanitarian efforts—especially during crises.
Highlighting the flourishing Pak-Turk friendship, Tarar cited landmark collaborative projects such as the Lahore Metro Bus and the city’s waste management initiative, developed during Shehbaz Sharif’s tenure as Chief Minister of Punjab. He emphasized that bilateral ties between the two nations are built upon a history of mutual support and shared humanitarian values, dating back to the Khilafat Movement.
Pak-Turk friendship strengthened by shared values, humanitarian solidarity: Tarar
Tarar noted the emotional bond between the citizens of both countries, recalling how Turkish people celebrated Pakistan’s recent victory over India in the streets of Istanbul and Ankara. “From natural disasters to moments of national pride, our people have stood together, united in empathy and joy,” he said.
The Minister praised Erdogan’s strong voice on global Muslim issues—especially his outspoken advocacy for Palestine on platforms such as the United Nations, the D-8 Summit, and the Shanghai Cooperation Organization. He saluted Erdogan’s powerful advocacy for Gaza across international platforms, calling him a global leader whose actions reflect deep moral commitment.
Pak-Turk friendship strengthened by shared values, humanitarian solidarity: Tarar
He condemned the ongoing humanitarian blockade in Gaza, labeling it a “catastrophic violation of basic human rights,” and lauded Türkiye’s swift response to refugee crises under Erdogan’s direction.
Tarar also recognized Pakistan’s own efforts in providing humanitarian aid and educational opportunities for Palestinian students, reiterating the nation’s commitment to justice and solidarity. “Pakistan will continue to stand by Palestine through aid, advocacy, and prayer,” he affirmed.
Pak-Turk friendship strengthened by shared values, humanitarian solidarity: Tarar
Describing the Pak-Turk relationship as “unbreakable,” Tarar underscored its ideological foundation built on compassion, resilience, and mutual respect. He called President Erdogan the “tiger of the world”—a title earned through decades of dedicated leadership and global outreach—and praised Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif’s vocal support for Palestine at international forums.
Concluding his remarks, the Minister congratulated Dr. Furqan Hameed for his timely and heartfelt tribute to President Erdogan, reaffirming that Pakistan remains a peace-loving nation committed to regional integrity and international harmony.
 Speaking at the launch ceremony of his latest book, senior journalist and head of TRT Urdu Service, Dr. Furqan Hameed, lauded Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan as an extraordinary statesman whose leadership has left an indelible mark not only on Türkiye but across the Muslim world.
Dr. Hameed described President Erdogan’s political journey as one rooted in public service, welfare-driven governance, and an unwavering commitment to democratic values. “His struggle and vision are not merely chapters in Türkiye’s history,” he said, “but a source of inspiration for the entire Muslim Ummah.”
Highlighting Türkiye’s achievements under Erdogan’s leadership, Dr. Hameed cited landmark progress in defense self-sufficiency, economic resilience, and democratic consolidation.
He emphasized that Erdogan’s influence transcends national borders, positioning him as a guiding force for Muslims globally.
The author also underscored the deep spiritual and historical ties between Pakistan and Turkiye, noting that President Erdogan has cultivated a profound bond with both Pakistan’s leadership and its people. “His frequent references to Allama Iqbal’s poetry reflect a heartfelt admiration and enduring affection for Pakistan,” Dr. Hameed remarked.
The ceremony served as a celebration of Pak-Turk friendship and a recognition of President Erdogan’s role as a unifying figure in the Muslim world.
The launch ceremony was graced by the distinguished presence of ambassadors from Turkiye, Azerbaijan, Turkmenistan, Kazakhstan, Uzbekistan, and Rwanda, along with esteemed researcher Dr. Furqan Hamie, prominent journalists, and leading personalities from various walks of life.

Preparations underway to celebrate Pakistan’s 79th Independence Day in Abbottabad

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ABBOTTABAD, Jul 28 (APP):In accordance with the directives of the provincial government, a high-level meeting of district officers was held under the chairmanship of Deputy Commissioner Abbottabad, Sanaullah Khan, to finalize arrangements for the 79th Independence Day celebrations.
Addressing the meeting, the Deputy Commissioner emphasized that the national day should be celebrated with full enthusiasm and traditional fervor. He directed the Education Department, TMOs, and other district departments to organize vibrant and meaningful events that promote patriotism among the public and encourage citizens to contribute to the country’s progress and development.
The meeting was attended by Additional Deputy Commissioner General, Additional Assistant Commissioner Headquarters, District Emergency Officer, CEO WASA, SP Cantonment, TMO Havelian, District Sports Officer, District Youth Officer, Deputy Director of the Information Department, and other senior officials.
Officials assured full cooperation and shared plans to ensure that the 14th August celebrations reflect unity, pride, and a collective commitment to the nation’s future.

OGRA advances digitalization of oil supply chain with nationwide track, trace system

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ISLAMABAD, Jul 28 (APP):The Oil and Gas Regulatory Authority (OGRA) conducted an interactive session on Monday with key stakeholders from Pakistan’s oil industry to review the progress and future roadmap of the nationwide Track & Trace System for the oil supply chain.
The session, held via Zoom, is part of OGRA’s broader digital transformation agenda to enhance transparency, safety, and efficiency across the oil sector, said a news release.
Chaired by OGRA Chairman Masroor Khan, along with Member Oil Zain Ul Abideen and Member Finance Shakeel Ahmed, the session featured a detailed presentation on the system’s operational framework, implementation strategy, and expected outcomes.
Director General Explosives, Director General Oil, Chairman of OCAC & over 100 representatives from the industry, which include all refineries, prominent Oil Marketing Companies (OMCs) such as PSO, PARCO, Wafi Energy, Gas & Oil Pakistan, Be Energy, Puma Energy, Zoom, Euro Oil, Fossil Energy and PGL, participated in the session.
Chairman OGRA highlighted the critical need for digitalization to modernise the oil supply chain and curb inefficiencies, illegal practices, and safety hazards. He urged industry stakeholders to work collaboratively with OGRA to ensure the success of this national initiative.
Speaking on the occasion, Member Oil Zain Ul Abideen reiterated that the Track & Trace System will monitor the movement of petroleum products from refineries and import terminals to depots, tank lorries, and retail outlets. The system integrates ERP platforms, GPS tracking, and centralised dashboards to enable real-time monitoring and data-driven regulation.
OGRA officials in the presentation highlighted that 29 OMCs have already deployed ERP systems, and approximately 15,000 tank lorries are equipped with GPS tracking. This digital backbone will support OGRA’s upcoming full-scale enforcement efforts aimed at preventing illegal decantation, fuel smuggling, and other supply chain malpractices.
The session reaffirmed OGRA’s commitment to fostering a transparent and secure petroleum supply ecosystem in Pakistan

CM committed to eliminating hepatitis by 2030

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KARACHI, Jul 28 (APP): Sindh Chief Minister Syed Murad Ali Shah has reaffirmed his government’s commitment to providing quality healthcare to every citizen of Sindh.
On the occasion of World Hepatitis Day, he said that the Sindh government remains at the forefront of the fight against hepatitis, expanding free testing and treatment services for hepatitis B and C across urban and rural areas.
The Chief Minister urged the public to adopt precautionary measures and seek timely treatment. He expressed Sindh’s dedication to eliminating hepatitis by 2030 in line with global health targets.
Murad Ali Shah emphasised that significant investments have been made in the health sector to ensure a healthier Sindh, with continued cooperation with the World Health Organisation towards achieving these goals.

Ahsan Iqbal, directors of films, dramas discuss ways to take Pakistani entertainment industry to global markets

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KARACHI, Jul 28 (APP): The Federal Minister for Planning, Development and Special Initiatives Professor Ahsan Iqbal, directors and producers of Pakistan film and drama industry on Monday huddled around to find ways for taking Pakistani entertainment industry to global markets.
In a roundtable discussion with the film and drama directors and producers including Nadeem Baig, Satish Anand and Hina Khawaja Bayat, who is also famous Pakistani actress, at a local hotel, the Federal Minister Ahsan Iqbal said that Pakistan had a rich culture and heritage and she had developed in the fields of music, art and dramas.
He said that historically Pakistani film industry was strong and developing in the past and Lahore and Karachi were its center.
Iqbal said that the film industry had left behind and merely three to four films were released in a year.
He said that Pakistani dramas and films were not present on the global platforms like netflix and amazon. He urged the directors and producers to play their part to take the Pakistanis entertainment programs to global platforms.
The Federal Minister said that Pakistani dramas were famous the world over and around 80 dramas were released annually. He advised the directors and producers to leave the conventional stories and encourage entrepreneurship in their dramas and movies. He said that Pakistan Police was demoralized in dramas. He further said that there were also good officer in the police department.
Iqbal said that the personalities belonging to entertainment industry were actually soft-powered ambassadors of Pakistan and their could play their role in promoting positive image and perception of her. He said that there was much difference in reality and perception about Pakistan. He said that the percetion about her could be made correct. He said that the Pakistan government would also help and support its entertainment industry to step into global dubbing market.
Iqbal said we should highlight the lives of our heros in flims and dramas. He said that poet of east and thinker of Pakistan Dr. Allama Iqbal was a great poet. We should create awareness of him in our youth through films and dramas, he said.
The Minister said that China was a major player in the global cinema and Pakistan could learn modern techniques and skills from her. He also stressed the need for exports to boost the economy of the country. He said, ‘If we have to develop continuously then we will have to priorities our exports.’
Director and Producer Nadeem Baig said that the Ministry of Planning, Development and Special Initiatives had contacted them for the first time to discuss entertainment challenges. He said that they could do a lot with the support of the government.
Satish Anand of Eveready Pictures on the occasion said that if Pakistani pictures had a strong content then nobody could stop them. He said they had to understand the global market. He further said they also had to bridge gaps to develop in the entertainment industry.
Pakistani drama actress Hina Khawaja Bayat said that there was a need to regulate entertainment industry in the country. She said that the atrists did not get their payments on time.

Nazar Jamali meets former Balochistan Chief Minister Jan Muhammad Khan Jamali

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QUETTA, Jul 28 (APP):Bureau Chief Quetta APP, Vice President of Balochistan Union of Journalists (BUJ) Nazar Muhammad Khan Jamali called on Former Chief Minister of Balochistan and widely respected political figure, Mir Jan Mohammad Khan Jamali at Jamali House Quetta here on Monday.
During the meeting, Nazar Muhammad inquired about the Former Chief Minister’s health and extended his well wishes.
Speaking on the occasion, Mir Jan Muhammad Khan Jamali said, “Alhamdulillah, my health is improving compared to before.
He reaffirmed his commitment to public service, stating that serving the people has always been at the heart of his political mission.
He emphasized that providing basic facilities to the people of his constituency remains one of his top priorities. “Serving the underprivileged brings me immense peace and satisfaction,” he added.
Jamali further stated that his ongoing efforts are aimed at improving the quality of life for the people and ensuring that development projects continue effectively and transparently for the greater public good.

62 para-veterinary staff get motorcycles

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FAISALABAD, Jul 28 (APP):Under the vision of CM Punjab, the livestock department has initiated practical steps to provide veterinary services with professional quality, faster delivery and effective access at the local level.
In this regard, the department distributed motorbikes among para-veterinary staff in a ceremony held at Civil Veterinary Hospital here on Monday. During the ceremony, 62 para-veterinary personnel of Faisalabad division were provided with motorcycles.
Members of Provincial Assembly Chaudhry Arif Mahmood Gill and Rao Kashif Rahim Khan were among the special guests. Director Livestock Faisalabad Division Dr. Syed Nadeem Badar, Additional Director Livestock Dr. Qaiser Khaliq Qureshi and others were present.
Arif Gill said that the provision of motorbikes will significantly improve the performance of para-veterinary staff.
He termed it an effective step towards timely provision of veterinary services in rural and remote areas.
He said that the Punjab government was utilizing all possible resources for the welfare and facilitation of veterinary workers.
Director Livestock Dr. Syed Nadeem Badar said that this step will increase the field coverage of para-veterinary staff and significantly reduce the response time. Improvement in livestock services means restoring the confidence of livestock farmers, he said.