QUETTA: Security forces have intensified operations against militants in various parts of Balochistan, killing 22 more suspects during an overnight pursuit, security sources said on Tuesday. According to the sources, the latest action is part of ongoing counter terrorism operations being carried out across the province. They claimed that over the past three days, a total of at least 177 militants have been killed in multiple operations. Security sources said that law enforcement agencies — including intelligence agencies and police — are continuing to tighten the noose around militant networks and alleged facilitators in different areas. They added that further…
Author: Web Desk2
LAHORE: The Punjab government has decided to further strengthen the Counter Terrorism Department (CTD) to effectively respond to rising terrorism threats in the province. In this regard, the provincial cabinet has approved an immediate supplementary grant of Rs1.5 billion to enhance CTD’s operational capacity and upgrade modern security systems. According to official details, the biggest demand is for anti-drone units and advanced equipment, for which Rs1.149 billion has been allocated. A request of Rs94.9 million has also been made for AI-based software upgradation, aimed at improving intelligence gathering and monitoring capabilities. Meanwhile, a proposal to spend Rs350 million on GPS…
RIYADH: Saudi Arabia’s Ministry of Hajj and Umrah has suspended contracts of 1,800 foreign travel agencies due to poor service standards, foreign media reported. These agencies are a significant portion of the total 5,800 travel agencies currently operating in the Umrah sector. According to the ministry, the decision was taken after a periodic evaluation, which revealed serious performance issues and service shortcomings in multiple agencies. The development is being seen as an important update for pilgrims planning to travel for Umrah in the coming days. Ministry spokesperson Ghassan Al-Nuaimi said the affected agencies have been given 10 days to fix…
DUBAI: The International Cricket Council (ICC) has responded after reports emerged that Pakistan may decide not to play against India during the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup 2026. In an official statement, the ICC said it has taken notice of the message reportedly issued by the Government of Pakistan regarding Pakistan team’s participation in the tournament. The ICC stated that it is now waiting for a formal decision from the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB). However, the ICC stressed that such a stance does not align with the basic concept of a global sports event, where all qualified teams are expected…
SINGAPORE: Gold prices witnessed a sharp fall in the international market on Tuesday, marking one of the biggest declines in recent history. According to market reports, the price of gold dropped by nearly 10% per ounce during trading. Gold fell by around $458 per ounce, bringing it down to nearly $4,435 per ounce. Analysts also noted that in just a few days, gold has become cheaper by almost $1,000 per ounce, raising concerns among investors and traders. Meanwhile, global oil prices also recorded a major decline of up to 4% in international trading. Reports said Brent crude was trading near…
SYDNEY – February 2, 2026: Australia has announced fully funded master’s scholarships for Pakistani students under the Australia Awards program, offering opportunities to study at recognized Australian universities. The scholarships cover complete financial support and are aimed at students who want to pursue postgraduate education and contribute to Pakistan’s development. According to Australian authorities, candidates will be selected on the basis of academic merit, professional experience, leadership ability, and their potential role in national progress. Applications from women, persons with disabilities, and underrepresented groups will be prioritized. Priority study areas Preference will be given to applicants pursuing subjects linked to:…
Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif and Khyber-Pakhtunkhwa Chief Minister Sohail Afridi held their first formal meeting in Islamabad, where they discussed key federal and provincial matters. The meeting took place at the Prime Minister House. The two leaders first met one-on-one and later held talks at the delegation level. According to official details, discussions focused on coordination between the federation and the province, along with administrative and development issues. Federal Interior Minister Mohsin Naqvi and KP Finance Adviser Muzammil Aslam were also present during the delegation-level talks. During the meeting, CM Afridi briefed the prime minister on provincial challenges and ongoing…
Pakistan spinner Usman Tariq has come under renewed attention following the T20 match against Australia, after questions were raised about his bowling action during the ongoing series. According to sources, the issue played a role in Tariq being left out of the third T20I. The Pakistan team management has not issued an official statement on the matter so far. In the second T20I, Tariq delivered an impressive spell and picked up two key wickets, including Cameron Green. After his dismissal, Green appeared to question Tariq’s bowling action on the field, an incident that quickly became a talking point. Soon after,…
Washington: The United States has announced the issuance of nearly 65,000 additional H-2B temporary work visas until September 30, offering fresh opportunities for people seeking employment in the US. According to an international news agency, these visas will be made available to American companies facing severe labour shortages, which are causing significant financial losses. Reports say the decision will substantially increase the number of seasonal H-2B guest worker visas, nearly doubling the annual quota. The move is expected to benefit key sectors such as construction, hospitality, landscaping, and seafood processing, where employers are struggling to find enough workers. Companies involved…
Bengaluru: A leading Indian real estate businessman was found dead on Wednesday during an income tax raid at his office in Bengaluru, in an incident that authorities say is being treated as an alleged suicide. The deceased has been identified as CJ Roy, chairman of the Confident Group, a major real estate firm. The 57-year-old businessman allegedly shot himself inside his office while income tax officials were present, Indian media reported. Following the incident, police and investigation agencies cordoned off the office premises and began collecting forensic and documentary evidence. According to Indian media, Bengaluru Police Commissioner confirmed that the…
