Saturday, July 19, 2025
Home Blog Page 748

Sana Yousaf murder case solved: accused held within 20 hours: IG Rizvi

By
Kamran Muraad
-
0
ISLAMABAD, Jun 03 (APP):Islamabad Capital Territory (ICT) Police have arrested the suspect involved in the brutal murder of 17-year-old TikToker Sana Yousaf within 20 hours of the incident, Inspector General of Police (IGP) Syed Ali Nasir Rizvi announced on Tuesday.
Sana Yousaf murder case solved: accused held within 20 hours: IG Rizvi
An official told APP that the case was registered on the complaint of Sana’s mother, who stated that around 5 p.m. on Monday, an unidentified man entered their residence in Sector G-13/1, opened fire on Sana, and fled. The victim sustained two gunshot wounds to the chest and was shifted to a hospital, where she succumbed to her injuries.
He said Sana’s mother added that the suspect could be identified if presented before her.
He said Sana Yousaf, a native of Chitral, had around 800,000 followers on TikTok and over 500,000 on Instagram. At the time of the attack, she was at home with her aunt, while her mother was at the market, her father at work, and her younger brother in Chitral.
IG Rizvi, speaking to the media, said the attacker had posed as a guest to gain entry into the house before committing the murder.
He said after registering the case, police launched a swift investigation and apprehended the accused, Umar Hayat alias “Kaka,” from Faisalabad within 20 hours.
He said investigations revealed that the suspect had tried to befriend Sana and, after repeated rejections, planned the attack. He added that the police recovered the murder weapon and the victim’s iPhone, which the suspect had taken to destroy evidence.
IG Rizvi said, “This is a case of repeated rejection. The accused made multiple attempts to contact the victim and stalked her persistently.”
IG Rizvi said the suspect had remained outside the victim’s house for over eight hours on May 29, her birthday, attempting to meet her. On June 2, after spending several more hours trying to contact her, he executed his plan and shot her.
IG Rizvi said the Interior Minister Mohsin Naqvi remained in constant contact during the investigation and issued timely directives. The Islamabad Police kept him regularly updated.
IG Rizvi said seven police teams led by DIG Tariq, SSP Investigation, SSP Operations, and DSP CIA played key roles in the investigation. He also appreciated the assistance of cellular forensics and social media experts in tracing the suspect.

CM stresses cycling for better health, clean environment

By
Kamran Muraad
-
0
LAHORE, Jun 03 (APP): Punjab Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz Sharif, in her message on World Bicycle Day, emphasized the importance of cycling for both individual health and environmental protection.
“The bicycle remains one of the best modes of transport, not only for personal well-being but also for preserving the environment,” she said.
Highlighting the global relevance of cycling, the CM noted, “If bicycles continue to serve as a primary mode of transport in many European countries, there is no reason we cannot adopt the same practice here.” She stressed the need to raise public awareness about the benefits of cycling, particularly in urban areas.
“By incorporating bicycles into daily life, we can reduce fuel consumption, combat pollution, and promote healthier lifestyles,” she said. “Cycling protects us from disease while saving energy and resources.”
The CM further encouraged schools and colleges to actively promote cycling among students. “Young people should be educated about the numerous physical and environmental benefits of using bicycles,” she remarked, adding, “It is essential to prioritize bicycles as a part of a healthy lifestyle.” She also referred to the international recognition of cycling, stating, “Since 2018, the United Nations has acknowledged the bicycle as an affordable, reliable, and eco-friendly mode of transportation.”
CM Maryam Nawaz said that the government is committed to promoting cycling culture in Punjab, saying, “We are dedicated to creating a healthier, cleaner, and safer environment by encouraging the use of bicycles.”

PITB, SECP sign agreement to implement HRIS Recruitment Module

By
Kamran Muraad
-
0
LAHORE, Jun 03 (APP):The Punjab Information Technology Board (PITB) and the Securities and Exchange Commission of Pakistan (SECP) on Tuesday signed an agreement to implement PITB’s Human Resource Information System (HRIS) Recruitment Module and Job Portal at SECP.
The signing ceremony was attended by PITB CFO Nadia Riaz, Joint Director (Bizlinks) Syed Ijlal Hussain, SECP Commissioner IS&T Zeeshan Rehman Khattak, Executive Director IS&T/CIO Haseebuddin Sheikh, Executive Director Support Services, and other senior officials from SECP.
As per the agreement, PITB will deploy a comprehensive digital solution that will fully automate SECP’s recruitment process, enhancing transparency, efficiency, and performance. The system will be integrated with SECP’s existing ERP framework, enabling streamlined workflows, reducing manual tasks, and facilitating effective decision-making through real-time dashboards.
Speaking on the occasion, PITB Chairman Faisal Yousaf stated, “PITB is committed to promoting transparency, efficiency, and convenience in public sector organizations through cutting-edge technology. The adoption of our HRIS Recruitment Module at a federal-level institution like SECP is a strong testament to the reliability and impact of our digital systems.”

LCCI wants federal budget balanced, strategic

By
Kamran Muraad
-
0
LAHORE, Jun 03 (APP):A balanced and strategy-driven federal budget is essential for Pakistan’s economic future, as it can define the country’s direction and stabilize a struggling business climate.
This was upshot of the speeches delivered by the LCCI Acting President Engineer Khalid Usman, Vice President Shahid Nazir Chaudhry, former LCCI president Muhammad Ali Mian, former senior vice president Ali Hussam Asghar and experts from different sectors while speaking at the awareness session on the upcoming Federal Budget 2025-26, organized by Lahore Chamber of Commerce and Industry here on Tuesday. Executive Committee Members Asif Malik, Firdous Nisar, Sheikh Muhammad Fayyaz, Abdul Majeed, Karamat Ali Awan, Syed Hassan Raza, Syed Salman Ali. Ehtsham ul Haq, Rana Muhammad Nisar, Shouban Akhter, former EC members Naeem Hanif, Malik Muhammad Usman, Yousaf Shah and Chaudhry Muhammad Arshad were also present.
Acting President Engr. Khalid Usman said that the key pillars of the budget should include expansion of the tax net, relief for existing taxpayers, protection of domestic industry, elimination of duties on imported raw materials, growth of GDP and exports meaningful economic reforms.
He said that tariffs must be used as a policy tool to protect domestic industries and reduce Pakistan’s reliance on imports. He advocated for zero-rating customs duties and sales tax on raw materials to ensure cost-effective industrial production. He also called for targeted incentives and protections for SMEs and the auto sector which are critical for employment and economic resilience.
While talking about the government’s reported plan to offer electricity at five cents per unit for crypto mining, he questioned why such a competitive rate is not being extended to local industries, which are far more impactful in terms of job creation and economic contribution.
He said that LCCI was the first chamber to submit budget proposals to the government. These included recommendations for reducing the cost of doing business, improving the ease of doing business, enabling SME growth using digital technology to minimize human interaction in tax administration. The LCCI also emphasized simplifying regulatory frameworks and promoting deregulation to encourage industrial expansion.
Vice President Shahid Nazir Chaudhry said that high operational costs and unpredictable tax policies have discouraged both local and foreign investors. He urged the government to craft a budget that offers long-term predictability, particularly in taxation. He stressed the importance of stakeholder consultation, especially with the business community, before implementing any new tax regime. He said that unless energy costs and policy instability are addressed, Pakistan’s manufacturing sector will remain uncompetitive in regional and global markets. He added that restoring business confidence requires continuity in policy and a fair taxation system that supports genuine businesses.
Former LCCI President Muhammad Ali Mian talked about tariff rationalization and gave various suggestions. He called for a pro-growth and industry-friendly federal budget that supports macroeconomic stability, promotes investment strengthens the country’s industrial backbone.
Former SVP Ali Hussam Asghar said that Pakistan’s export potential remains largely untapped due to inconsistent policy frameworks and lack of facilitation for exporters. He said that enhancing exports is the only sustainable way to address Pakistan’s trade deficit and foreign exchange challenges.
Reviewing the current fiscal performance, participants said that according to FY 2024–25 budget documents, the FBR was initially tasked with collecting Rs 12,970 billion, later revised down to Rs12,334 billion. The targets included Rs 5,454 billion from income tax, Rs 4,919 billion from sales tax, Rs 1,591 billion from customs duties Rs 948 billion from federal excise duty. However, in the first eleven months (July 2024 to May 2025), FBR collected only Rs 10.23 trillion, falling short by over Rs 1 trillion.
The LCCI also called for an increase in the withholding agent turnover threshold from Rs 100 million to Rs 250 million to reduce the compliance burden on smaller businesses. It stressed the importance of timely issuance of tax refunds to exporters to ease cash flow constraints and encourage reinvestment into business operations. Economic policies, they said, should be designed with at least a 10-year continuity framework to ensure predictability and stability.

NCCIA busts International Child Exploitation Ring led by German national

By
Kamran Muraad
-
0
ISLAMABAD, Jun 03 (APP):Pakistan’s National Cyber Crime Investigation Agency (NCCIA) has uncovered a disturbing international child exploitation network operating from Muzaffargarh, allegedly led by a German national named Renz.
The announcement was made by State Minister for Interior, Tallal Chaudhry, during a joint press conference with NCCIA Director General Dr. Syed Waqar-ud-din Syed on Tuesday in Islamabad.
According to officials, the gang targeted children between the ages of 6 and 10, most of whom came from extremely poor families. A so-called “children’s club” was set up as a front to attract the victims. It featured advanced facilities, including high-quality cameras, lighting, and recording equipment.
Minister Chaudhry revealed that children were first given money and then blackmailed into exploitation. The videos were recorded in a studio-like setting and sold on the dark web for thousands of dollars per day. The German suspect reportedly traveled to Pakistan for 28 days, trained local operators, and established the setup.
“This was not just a local case. This was an international operation being run from within Pakistan,” the minister said. “We have confirmed that this gang was creating and distributing live content globally.”
A major raid was carried out by the NCCIA on May 23, with support from local police and intelligence agencies. The operation led to the rescue of at least 6 children, who have been handed over to the Punjab Child Protection Bureau. In total, over 50 children were identified as victims.
Authorities have so far registered 178 FIRs (First Information Reports) related to child exploitation. Of these, 14 individuals have already been sentenced to 7–10 years in prison. Two suspects from this particular case were arrested during the raid, while three others remain at large. Efforts are underway to locate and apprehend them.
Some parents of the victims were also found to be involved in the exploitation, either knowingly or by accepting money. “It is heartbreaking to say that in some cases, even the parents were part of this horrific business,” said the minister.
The NCCIA acted on intelligence received through the U.S.-based National Center for Missing and Exploited Children (NCMEC) and from Interpol. The agency is equipped with a 24/7 monitoring system and collaborates with global organizations to track and prevent online crimes against children.
Dr. Waqar-ud-din added that hundreds of videos were recovered from the studio, and many were already being circulated through encrypted apps like WhatsApp and Telegram, and later sold on the dark web.
“This is a major breakthrough. It’s the first time such a large, organized international network has been exposed and disrupted in Pakistan,” said the DG. “We are working closely with Interpol and German authorities to trace and arrest the foreign suspects.”
He also highlighted that Pakistan is now among the 71 countries with access to Interpol’s global databases, which has helped speed up investigations and international cooperation.
Minister Chaudhry emphasized that new amendments in the Prevention of Electronic Crimes Act (PECA) have increased punishment for child exploitation crimes from 7–10 years to 14–20 years. These offenses are now non-bailable and non-compoundable.
“We are taking this matter very seriously,” he said. “The Prime Minister and Interior Minister have been briefed, and we are seeking funds to expand NCCIA offices across the country. We want a strong cybercrime unit in every district of Pakistan.”
The minister concluded by calling on the media and civil society to support efforts in combating online child abuse. “This is not just the government’s fight. It is a fight for our children, our future, and our moral responsibility.”

Governor Kundi lauds Rotary Club’s welfare initiatives, emphasizes collaboration for polio eradication

By
NNPS Desk
-
0

PESHAWAR, Jun 03 (APP): Governor Khyber Pakhtunkhwa Faisal Karim Kundi on Tuesday lauded the efforts of Rotary Club International in the fields of health, education, and social welfare during a meeting with a Rotary delegation led by Shabbir Malik at the Governor House.

The delegation briefed the Governor on Rotary’s wide-ranging initiatives including promotion of education through school renovation, provision of uniforms, bags, and furniture for students, maternal and child health programs, training of lady health workers, and tree plantation drives.

Special focus was given to Rotary’s role in the ongoing polio eradication campaign, empowerment of women through fellowship programs, and revitalization of basic health units across the province.

Governor Kundi commended Rotary’s contributions and emphasized the need to engage all segments of society in the fight against polio.

He stressed the importance of adopting a strategy that encourages parents to voluntarily vaccinate their children and proposed improving health centers to make them more effective and appealing.

To ensure a coordinated approach, the Governor’s House has appointed a focal person for polio campaigns across the province.

Governor Kundi also welcomed enhanced cooperation between Rotary Club and the Red Crescent, aiming to develop a strong and sustainable partnership that can be expanded to other social welfare programs.

He further highlighted the critical need for clean drinking water in the southern districts of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, particularly in the Daman areas, and termed water filtration projects essential for the area.

Meanwhile, CEO of Serena Hotels, Aziz Boolani, met with Governor Faisal Karim Kundi at the Governor House to discuss mutual interests including women empowerment, youth engagement in national development, and the promotion of cultural activities.

Governor Kundi appreciated Serena Hotels’ efforts in promoting social development and harmony, emphasizing that sustainable progress is impossible without including women and youth in the national mainstream.

He highlighted the importance of cultural initiatives in fostering unity and interfaith harmony, and stressed the need to utilize every platform to promote Pakistan’s cultural diversity.

Aziz Boolani briefed the Governor on Serena Hotels’ ongoing social and cultural projects and expressed willingness to collaborate on future joint programs and events.

Similarly, Governor Faisal Karim Kundi in a meeting with Chairman of the National Assembly Standing Committee on Defence Sardar Fatehullah Khan Miankhel, MNA Noor Alam Khan, former Federal Minister Najmuddin Khan, and MPA Iqbal Wazir at the Governor House Peshawar discussed key issues including the recent visit of Prime Minister Muhammad Shehbaz Sharif and Field Marshal Syed Asim Munir to Peshawar, the overall law and order situation in the province, ongoing political activities, and other matters of mutual interest.

RDMC inaugurates fourth solar-powered, RO Plant

By
Kamran Muraad
-
0
QUETTA, Jun 03 (APP): The Reko Diq Mining Company (RDMC) on Tuesday inaugurated a solar-powered Reverse Osmosis (RO) plant in Durban Chah village of Chagai District.
The initiative was proposed and planned by the local Par-e-Koh Community Development Committee (CDC), highlighting RDMC’s collaborative approach to addressing essential needs in partnership with local stakeholders.
The plant was officially inaugurated by RDMC General Manager Ryan Mitchell, alongside local community members and CDC representatives, who acknowledged RDMC’s commitment to addressing community needs through responsive, impact-driven projects.
This is the fourth RO plant commissioned by RDMC in the region, with previous installations in the villages of Humai, Nok Chah, and Mashki Chah.
All RO plants are powered by solar energy to ensure sustainability amid ongoing challenges with the local power distribution network.
The newly inaugurated plant in Durban Chah features state-of-the-art technology and has a daily production capacity of 10,000 gallons of clean, safe drinking water. Before its installation, local water wells had Total Dissolved Solids (TDS) levels between 2,000 and 2,500 mg/l—well above safe consumption thresholds. With the new RO plant, TDS levels have been reduced to a safe range of 200–230 mg/l, aligning with health standards for potable water.
Residents of Durban Chah and surrounding areas had long struggled to access safe drinking water, often relying on sources that posed serious health risks. The new RO plant addresses this pressing issue, improving quality of life through advanced water purification technology and renewable energy solutions.
RDMC’s broader social investment strategy prioritizes water security and human development. Key initiatives include establishing primary schools, vocational training in partnership with the Hunar Foundation, and improving access to healthcare through collaboration with the Indus Hospital & Health Network. All development efforts are guided by local CDCs ensuring inclusivity and community representation in project planning and execution.

Finance Ministry urged to release Rs8 bln to PLICL

By
Kamran Muraad
-
0
ISLAMABAD, Jun 3 (APP):The National Assembly’s Standing Committee on Privatization Tuesday recommended urgent release of Rs.8 billion for the Postal Life Insurance Company Limited (PLICL), following concerning disclosures over a steep decline in its client base due to funding delays.
The Standing Committee meeting was chaired by Muhammad Farooq Sattar, MNA, according to press release issued by National Assembly Secretariat.
During a briefing, a representative from the Ministry of Finance updated the committee on the status of a Rs. 48 billion promissory note and the interest accrued on it. He stated that Rs. 14 billion had already been disbursed to PLICL during the 2021–22 fiscal year, with the government of Pakistan committed to releasing the remaining amount in due course.
However, the representative from PLICL informed the committee that there had not been procedural delay in releasing sufficient funds to fulfill policyholders’ claims. This funding shortfall, he said, has severely impacted customer confidence, resulting in a drastic 50% decline in the company’s client base.
After an in-depth discussion, the committee acknowledged that PLICL’s concerns were valid and recommended that Rs. 8 billion be released to the company not later than September 2025. Additionally, the committee emphasized that PLICL must take all necessary measures to safeguard the rights and interests of its existing policyholders.
The Secretary Privatization Division briefed the Committee on the implementation status on the recommendations of the previous meeting and stated that the Committee had recommended that the decision to privatize Utility Store Corporation (USC) should be reviewed.
He stated that the Cabinet Committee on Privatization/Cabinet was the competent forum for inclusion of SOE’s in the Privatization program and the recommendations of the Standing Committee will be brought before CCOP/Cabinet.
The representatives of Peshawar Electric Supply Company (PESCO) and Hyderabad Electric Supply Company (HESCO) briefed the Committee on the progress of Privatization process of the DISCO’s.
The Committee showed its serious concern over unannounced and heavy load shedding and directed to ensure to minimize the load shedding duration.

KhUJ expresses concern over rising street crimes in Peshawar

By
Kamran Muraad
-
0
PESHAWAR, Jun 03 (APP): The Khyber Union of Journalists (KhUJ) on Tuesday expressed deep concern over the growing number of street crimes especially targeting journalists in the provincial capital, including mobile phone snatching, vehicle and motorcycle thefts, and other forms of armed robbery.
The union reported that numerous journalists have fallen victim to such incidents this year, yet police authorities have shown no tangible progress in apprehending the culprits or recovering stolen property.
In a joint press statement issued by KhUJ President Kashif-ud-Din Syed and General Secretary Irshad Ali, the union highlighted the rising frequency of attacks against journalists in the city.
They revealed that journalists are frequently being deprived of their mobile phones, cash, motorcycles, and cars, with no arrests or recoveries made by law enforcement agencies to date thus sparking widespread concern across the media community.
The union further revealed that on Tuesday street criminals snatched the mobile phone of Nasir Naeem, the General Secretary of the Video Journalists’ Association, and fled the scene.
President Kashif-ud-Din Syed stated that journalists in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, particularly in Peshawar, are increasingly becoming the targets of both criminal gangs and influential groups.
He criticized the apparent inaction of law enforcement agencies, describing it as a serious failure.
Additionally, the statement mentioned that during a recent protest organized by the Pakistan Peoples Party, a video journalist’s motorcycle was stolen. In other incidents earlier this year, two journalists had their vehicles stolen, while several others were robbed at gunpoint of cash and valuable belongings—yet none of the perpetrators have been brought to justice.
The KhUJ has called on the Inspector General of Police Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, the Capital City Police Officer (CCPO), and the SSP Operations to take immediate action.
They demanded the prompt arrest of all those involved in these crimes, including those who targeted Nasir Naeem, and the recovery of the stolen valuables and vehicles.

EPCL seeks government support for industry competitiveness

By
Kamran Muraad
-
0
ISLAMABAD, Jun 3 (APP):A delegation led by Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of Engro Polymer & Chemicals Limited (EPCL), Abdul Qayoom, called on Federal Minister for Commerce, Jam Kamal Khan, on Tuesday to discuss challenges faced by the polymer and chemical industry and to seek government support for improving competitiveness.
According to press release issued by commerce ministry, Abdul Qayoom apprised the minister of the difficulties being faced by the industry, particularly related to tariff structures and regional competition.
He emphasized the importance of a level-playing field and policy support to enable local manufacturers to thrive and contribute effectively to the national economy.
The minister assured the delegation of government’s commitment to creating a business-friendly environment adding it would look into viable solutions to support the chemical and manufacturing sectors.
He said that strengthening local industries was a key priority of the government, and stakeholders’ input is vital in shaping trade and industrial policies.
He assured that the Ministry of Commerce would work in coordination with relevant departments to address the issues raised and explore options to enhance the industry’s export potential and overall growth.
1...747748749...28,080Page 748 of 28,080

ABOUT US

Serving the nation since 1947 by providing an accurate, objective, uninterrupted flow of news to the people, the national news service is pursuing a comprehensive strategy to transform the existing news operations into a forward-looking service – APP Digital for its diverse subscriber-base and the public.

Contact us: news@app.com.pk

FOLLOW US

Copyright © Associated Press of Pakistan