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ANF recovers over 738 kg drugs in 11 operations; arrests 12 accused

By
Samina Ch
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ISLAMABAD, Jul 23 (APP):Anti-Narcotics Force (ANF ) while conducting 11 operations across the country managed to recover over 738 kg drugs worth more than over Rs 253 million and arrested 12 drug traffickers during two days.
According to an ANF Headquarters spokesperson, in an operation at Allama Iqbal International Airport, cargo shed, 300 grams opium was recovered from a parcel booked for Canada.
In second operation at Faisal Bus Terminal near Islamabad, 2.5 kgs heroin, 2.4 kgs hashish, & 1 kg ice were recovered from the possession of three suspects.
ANF recovered 56 kgs hashish from a vehicle checked near University Road, Peshawar, and a drug trafficker was arrested.
In 4th operation near Garh Mor Road, Muzaffargarh, 7 kgs ice was recovered from two suspects, traveling in a truck while in an operation near DG Khan Road in Loralai, 168 kgs heroin hidden for smuggling was recovered.
In an operation against drug traffickers near Toll Plaza Road, Mansehra, 18 kgs hashish was recovered from a vehicle and a drug smuggler was rounded up.
The spokesperson informed that in an operation, 2 kgs hashish and 7 kgs suspicious material were recovered from a parcel sent to Karachi at a Cargo Office in Rawalpindi.
Near RCD Road, Hub, 24 kgs hashish was recovered from a vehicle and two accused arrested while in a operation near RCD Road, Hub, 64.8 kgs hashish was recovered from the secret cavities of a vehicle. ANF also arrested an accused during the operation.
In a raid at a warehouse located on Adam G. Dawood Road, Karachi, 384 kgs potassium permanganate was recovered from the possession of a person.
In 11th operation on National Highway, Hyderabad, 2 kgs opium was recovered from a passenger bus and a drug smuggler was arrested.
The spokesperson informed that separate cases have been registered under the CNS Act against the accused.

Overseas Pakistanis top priority of incumbent regime: Aun Chaudhry

By
Ali Ali
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ISLAMABAD, Jul 23 (APP):Minister of State for Overseas Pakistanis Aun Saqlain Chaudhry was called on by Pakistan’s High Commissioner to the United Kingdom, Dr. Mohammad Faisal.
The meeting focused on Pakistan-UK bilateral relations, mutual cooperation and the challenges faced by overseas Pakistanis.
Dr. Faisal briefed the State Minister on the current state of bilateral ties and apprised him of the issues, concerns and needs of the Pakistani residents residing in the United Kingdom.
He also informed about the activities of his august office and facilities being extended to the Pakistani community residing in the UK.
During the meeting, Aun Chaudhry underscored the importance of overseas Pakistanis, calling them a valuable national asset who have consistently played a constructive and commendable role in the country’s progress, said a press release here on Wednesday.
He stated that the Prime Minister of Pakistan highly appreciates the contributions of the overseas community and is taking concrete measures to address their concerns and ensure the provision of necessary facilities.
State Minister for Overseas Aun Choudhary reaffirmed the Government’s commitment to prioritizing the resolution of overseas Pakistanis’ issues.
He emphasized that all available resources will be utilized to ensure their comfort, protection, and full support.
The meeting concluded on a positive note, with both dignitaries expressing their commitment to enhancing mutual cooperation and strengthening bilateral ties further.

Pakistan and Bangladesh agree on visa-free entry for diplomats, pledge stronger security cooperation

By
NNPS Desk
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ISLAMABAD, Jul 23 (APP): In a major diplomatic breakthrough on Wednesday, Pakistan and Bangladesh have agreed in principle to grant visa-free entry to holders of diplomatic and official passports on Wednesday during a high-level meeting between Pakistan’s Federal Interior Minister Mohsin Naqvi and Bangladesh’s Home Minister Lieutenant General (Retd) Jahangir Alam Chowdhury in Dhaka.

Minister Naqvi, who is on an official visit to Bangladesh, was warmly received by his counterpart upon arrival at the Ministry of Home Affairs. He was presented with a guard of honour before the two sides began discussions.

During the meeting, the two ministers held wide-ranging talks on bilateral issues and matters of mutual interest, with a particular focus on strengthening cooperation in internal security and law enforcement. Both sides expressed a strong desire to deepen collaboration in key areas, including counter-terrorism, combating drug trafficking, and preventing human smuggling.

One of the most significant outcomes of the meeting was the mutual agreement to allow visa-free travel for officials and diplomats, a move seen as a step towards easing bureaucratic barriers and enhancing bilateral engagement.

The ministers also discussed plans to exchange training programs between police academies, aiming to improve professional capacity and technical expertise. Bangladesh’s Home Minister thanked Minister Naqvi for offering support in police training and described the visit as an important milestone in advancing ties between the two countries.

“I wholeheartedly welcome my brother upon his arrival in Dhaka. Your visit is of great importance for the promotion of Pakistan-Bangladesh relations,” said the Bangladeshi minister.

To follow up on the decisions taken during the meeting, both sides agreed to form a joint committee. Pakistan’s Federal Interior Secretary Khurram Agha will lead the Pakistani side in this coordination effort. The committee will oversee implementation of the agreed initiatives and explore further avenues for cooperation.

As part of the growing partnership, a high-level delegation from Bangladesh is expected to visit Islamabad soon to study Pakistan’s Safe City Project and tour the National Police Academy.

The meeting, attended by senior government officials and diplomats from both countries, marks a new chapter in efforts to build trust and collaboration between Islamabad and Dhaka. It underscores a shared commitment to regional security, institutional development, and diplomatic engagement.

Flood situation mostly normal in Gujrat

By
Samina Ch
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0
APP69-100725 LAHORE: July 10 – Labourers push a motorcycle loader carrying onions through a flooded fruit and vegetable market after heavy torrential monsoon rains hit the provincial capital. APP/MTF/MAF/TZD/SSH
GUJRAT, Jul 23 (APP):The flood situation in Gujrat remains largely under control, with water levels at most barrages within normal limits, while a low level flood has been reported at Head Khanki, according to the Flood Forecasting Division and District Administration Gujrat.
As per official data, the water discharge at Head Marala was recorded at 99,006 cusecs upstream and 75,356 cusecs downstream, maintaining a normal flow. At Head Qadirabad, upstream flow stood at 93,790 cusecs and downstream at 78,790 cusecs, also marked as normal.However, Head Khanki reported a low-level flood with an upstream flow of 112,020 cusecs and a downstream flow of 107,640 cusecs. Bhimber Nullah also showed normal water flow, officials confirmed.Meanwhile, 4.2 millimeters of rainfall were recorded in various parts of the district during the past 24 hours.
To tackle any potential emergency, the district administration has completed mock exercises and established flood relief camps equipped with food, shelter, and basic health facilities. Flag markings and continuous monitoring are underway at all sensitive locations.Public awareness announcements are ongoing in low-lying areas, while departments including Civil Defence, Rescue 1122, and Health remain on high alert. Citizens, especially farmers, have been urged to adopt precautionary measures in light of the evolving situation.

PM expresses satisfaction over Pak-UK bilateral cooperation

By
Irfan Khan
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ISLAMABAD, July 23 (APP): Prime Minister Muhammad Shehbaz Sharif on Wednesday expressed satisfaction at the positive trajectory of bilateral cooperation between Pakistan and the United Kingdom.

He said the recently held trade talks between the two countries would lead to mutually beneficial opportunities for both sides.

British High Commissioner to Pakistan Jane Marriott called on the prime minister at the Prime Minister’s House, PM Office Media Wing said in a press release.

PM expresses satisfaction over Pak-UK bilateral cooperation

The prime minister said Pakistan was also cooperating closely with the UK at the UN Security Council, where Pakistan currently held the monthly Presidency.

He welcomed the UK Government’s recent decision to resume PIA flights to and from the UK, which he said, would go a long way in alleviating the hardships faced by the British Pakistani community as well as enhancing people-to-people exchanges.

He particularly appreciated the role of the High Commissioner in this regard.

The regional situation in South Asia and the Middle East was also discussed.

The Prime Minister expressed his appreciation for the UK’s role in de-escalation of tensions during the Pakistan-India stand-off and reiterated that Pakistan was ready for a meaningful dialogue with India on all outstanding issues.

During the meeting, the prime minister conveyed his warm wishes for King Charles III and Prime Minister Keir Starmer and said he looked forward to his meeting with the UK leadership later this year.

The UK high commissioner thanked the prime minister for receiving her and briefed him about her recent visit to London, where she had extensive consultations on enhancing Pakistan-UK bilateral ties.

She lauded the government’s economic performance in the last year and a half, under the vision and leadership of the prime minister, which had brought about a significant improvement in all key macro-economic indicators.

She also shared with the prime minister, the UK’s perspective on regional developments in South Asia and the Middle East.

Rising risk of waterborne diseases prompts health authority to increase vigilance

By
Ali Ali
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RAWALPINDI, Jul 23 (APP):In response to escalating waterborne diseases risk, the District Health Authority (DHA) Rawalpindi has decided to launch a continuous monitoring and surveillance mechanism for safeguarding public health.
Through a detailed order to combat the rising risk of gastroenteritis and other waterborne diseases, the authority has mobilized its officers and sanitary inspectors across various tehsils including Rawal Town, Potohar, Cantt, Murree, Gujar Khan, Kahuta, Taxila, Kotli Sattian, and Kallar Syedan.
It is important to note that with favorable weather conditions creating an ideal environment for microbial growth, the gastrointestinal issue can become a tough challenge to be countered.
The initiative, taken by the authority includes rigorous inspections of hotels, restaurants, factories, shops, bake houses and sweet shops to ensure food safety and hygiene. “Officers are tasked with maintaining cold chains for food storage, chlorinating water sources and conducting regular sampling of milk and drinking water”, informed Dr Waqas Ahmad, the  DHA’s spokesman.
As many as 20 health officers and inspectors have been assigned to remain vigilant about the rising gastrointestinal diseases risk.
Additionally, the authority is focusing on employee health screenings and coordinating with local departments to provide safe drinking water and sanitation facilities.
Dr Waqar informed APP that gastroenteritis issues involve disorders of the digestive system, including the stomach, intestines, and related organs generally caused by bacterial or viral infections, contaminated food or water, and poor hygiene.
“Symptoms include abdominal pain, diarrhea, nausea, vomiting, and dehydration”, he said.
The spokesman highlighted that the severe cases may lead to weight loss or prolonged discomfort, if not treated timely.
“This can lead to issues ranging from mild discomfort to serious health complications for which preventive approach is inevitable”, he added
To a question, Dr. Waqar emphasized cleanliness, hygienic measures, water purification and properly cooked food to reduce the risk.
He said that water being chemically favourable solvent could create issues by dissolving unwanted or harmful bacteria or viruses, which needs special attention. 395

Crackdown on sugar hoarders and profiteers planned

By
Ali Ali
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VEHARI, Jul 23 (APP):Deputy Commissioner Babar Suleman has announced a crackdown on sugar hoarders and profiteers to ensure uninterrupted availability of essential commodity at government-approved rates.
While presiding over a meeting with the Sugar Dealers Association on Wednesday, the DC stressed strict implementation of notified sugar prices and directed authorities to closely monitor the supply chain throughout Vehari district. He stressed that sugar must be sold at the official market rate of Rs 173 per kilogram without any manipulation.
The meeting also reviewed sugar distribution records and discussed ways to align them with existing regulations. It was decided that strict action would be taken against those found violating the government’s sales and pricing policy. The DC instructed that any dealers involved in overpricing or disrupting the supply system should be dealt with firmly. He urged sugar traders to cooperate with the administration in maintaining transparency and fairness in sugar sales.
During the meeting, members of the Sugar Dealers Association put forward several suggestions to improve the distribution mechanism. The administration also assessed the tehsil’s sugar demand to ensure sufficient supply in the coming weeks.

NA Speaker mourns demise of former Punjab Governor, MNA Mian Muhammad Azhar

By
Ali Ali
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ISLAMABAD, Jul 23 (APP):National Assembly Speaker Sardar Ayaz Sadiq, has expressed deep sorrow over the passing of former Punjab Governor and sitting Member of the National Assembly, Mian Muhammad Azhar.
In his condolence message, the Speaker extended heartfelt sympathies to the bereaved family and prayed for the departed soul to attain elevated ranks in Jannat.
He also prayed for sabr-e-jameel for the family during this difficult time.
“May Allah Almighty forgive the departed soul and grant the bereaved family patience and strength. Ameen,” said Speaker Ayaz Sadiq.

Audit report not reflective of current reforms: Power Division clarifies

By
Ali Ali
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0
ISLAMABAD, Jul 23 (APP):The Power Division on Wednesday clarified a news appeared in a section of press related to an audit report, stating that it pertains to the fiscal year 2023–24 and does not reflect the performance or actions of the present government.
According to the spokesperson for the Power Division, the audit report under discussion is outdated and covers a period prior to the current administration’s tenure. “This is not a report of the current financial year, and it must not be viewed in the context of the reforms and corrective measures introduced by the present government,” he added.
The Power Division added that the report is preliminary in nature and is subject to review, further documentation, and evidence submission. “The findings will be examined across relevant forums, and final figures are yet to be presented,” it said, urging stakeholders not to draw conclusions from the initial observations.
The spokesperson said that both the ministry and the government were already aware of the systemic challenges in the power sector, particularly the long-standing issue of overbilling and inaccurate meter readings. “This has been repeatedly highlighted by Minister for Power Sardar Awais Ahmad Khan Leghari,” the spokesperson added.
In response to these concerns, the Power Division said the government has launched decisive and far-reaching reforms. Among these initiatives is the introduction of the “Power Smart” app under the “Apna Meter, Apni Reading” campaign. “This technological intervention allows electricity consumers to record their own meter readings, helping to reduce billing discrepancies,” the spokesperson added.
More than one million consumers across the country have already downloaded the Power Smart application, which is being hailed as a major step toward transparency and consumer empowerment.
According to the Power Division, losses in the power sector were recorded at Rs 591 billion in June 2024. As a result of policy reforms and efficiency measures, these losses have now been brought down by Rs 191 billion.
The spokesperson said that the upcoming year has been designated as “the year of reliable service for electricity consumers” by Minister for Power Sardar Awais Ahmad Khan Leghari.

Chase, Hope attain career bests in ICC Rankings

By
Ali Ali
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0
ISLAMABAD, Jul 23 (APP):All-rounder Roston Chase and captain Shai Hope of the West Indies have achieved career best positions in the ICC Men’s T20I Player Rankings after some fine performances in the first two T20Is of their five-match home series against Australia, which the visiting side leads 2-0.
Chase, who struck 60 off just 32 balls in the first T20I in Kingston and scored 76 runs in two matches, has advanced 37 places to 98th among batters and seven places to a career-best second position in the all-rounders’ list that is led by India’s Hardik Pandya, said a press release.
Chase’s previous best was the eighth position that he had reached in December last year.
In the latest weekly update that considers performances in the Bangladesh-Pakistan series and those of a tri-series in Zimbabwe also featuring New Zealand and South Africa, among other matches this past week, wicketkeeper-batter Hope has attained a career-best 10th position after scoring 64 runs in two matches, including a 39-ball 55 in the first match.
Australia captain Mitchell Marsh has gained three slots to reach 23rd position, West Indies’ batter Brandon King is up four places to 30th while the Bangladesh pair of Tanzid Hasan (up 18 places to 37th) and Towhid Hridoy (up two places to 39th) are others to make notable gains in the top 50 of the batting rankings.
Devon Conway of New Zealand and Jaker Ali of Bangladesh are in joint-53rd position after gaining three and 17 places, respectively, while Pakistan’s Fakhar Zaman (up eight places to 79th) and Cameron Green of Australia (up 34 places to 88th) have also progressed.
In the bowling rankings, Bangladesh fast bowler Mustafizur Rahman’s three wickets in two matches have lifted him back into the top 10 as he has advanced 17 places to reach ninth position while his team-mates Mehedi Hasan (up nine places to 16th), Tanzim Hasan Sahib (up nine places to 37th) and Shoriful Islam (up 14 places to 43rd) have also moved up the rankings.
New Zealand’s Matt Henry (up 13 places to 29th) and Ish Sodhi (up two places to 33rd), Australia’s Sean Abbott (up eight places to 44th), and Pakistan spinner Abrar Ahmed (up 12 places to 49th) are others to move up the list.
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