ISLAMABAD: The Islamabad Capital Territory (ICT) police have apprehended the main suspect behind a recent bank robbery, recovering stolen cash, firearms, ammunition, and the motorcycle used in the crime. Deputy Inspector General (DIG) of Islamabad Police, Syed Ali Raza, shared these details in a press conference at the Rescue 15 office. According to DIG Raza, the accused, identified as Sulaiman, also known as Salo Bhai, was arrested in Sargodha after an intensive five-day investigation led by the Counter-Terrorism Department (CTD) and the Crime Investigation Agency (CIA). DIG Raza highlighted that the operation employed various resources, including Safe City surveillance footage,…
Author: Saifullah
ISLAMABAD: The National Assembly has approved two significant bills aimed at increasing the number of judges in the country’s judiciary, specifically the Supreme Court (Practice and Procedure) Amendment Ordinance 2024 and the Islamabad High Court Amendment Bill 2024. The session, chaired by NA Speaker Ayaz Sadiq, commenced with Law Minister Azam Tarar presenting the bills that seek to address the growing backlog of cases in the courts. These bills were previously approved by the federal cabinet and are now set to enhance judicial capacity. The Supreme Court Practice and Procedure Ordinance proposes to raise the number of Supreme Court judges…
ISLAMABAD: Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif briefed cabinet members on the successful outcomes of his recent visits to Saudi Arabia and Qatar, emphasizing the productive discussions held with both nations’ leadership. During these engagements, the Prime Minister discussed various sectors, including solar energy, mining, minerals, and information technology (IT). He announced that a delegation from the Qatar Investment Authority would soon visit Pakistan, following Qatar’s commitment to invest $3 billion in the country. In a meeting with Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman, the Prime Minister was informed about the significant demand for IT-trained professionals in Saudi Arabia, prompting a call…
KARACHI: The State Bank of Pakistan’s Monetary Policy Committee (MPC) has announced a 250 basis points cut in the policy rate, lowering it from 17.5% to 15%, effective November 5, 2024. This decision marks the fourth consecutive reduction in interest rates as inflation continues to decline, reaching close to the medium-term target range in October. In its statement, the SBP highlighted that recent developments, including a significant drop in food inflation and favorable global oil prices, have contributed to this downward trend. The MPC noted the importance of a tight monetary policy in sustaining inflation reduction and acknowledged the role…
In June 2024, Pakistan successfully averted what seemed to be an impending default, silencing speculation and rumors of a financial collapse. Last year, social media was rife with predictions that Pakistan would default on its external debt obligations, with the country needing to meet hefty payments totaling $27 billion in 2024 alone. However, Pakistan’s economic recovery efforts were stronger than anticipated, tackling each major financial hurdle and managing its resources effectively, which quickly changed the narrative. Several key factors contributed to this financial turnaround. Firstly, Pakistan recorded an increase in exports and remittances, which provided a boost to the national…
In a story of courage, perseverance, and unbreakable resolve, two men emerged as the champions of justice for government employees unlawfully detained while serving the people. Kamal Shah, a dedicated member of Rescue 1122, and Fateh Ullah Barki, an advocate at the Islamabad High Court, fought tirelessly to secure the release of Rescue 1122, Khyber Pakhtunkhwa (KPK) Police, and TMA employees arrested under questionable circumstances. The incident unfolded at the Hazro Interchange, where Punjab Police reportedly detained Rescue 1122 personnel, KPK police guards, and TMA employees. These officers were stationed to assist with emergencies at the request of the Chief…
Pakistan’s administrative structure comprises 38 divisions spread across its four provinces—Punjab, Sindh, Khyber Pakhtunkhwa (KP), and Balochistan—and two autonomous regions, Azad Jammu and Kashmir (AJK) and Gilgit-Baltistan (GB). Each province is divided further into districts, tehsils, and union councils, forming a complex network that helps govern and deliver services to the nation’s over 220 million people. Punjab has 8 divisions, Sindh 5, KP 7, Balochistan 6, AJK 3, and GB 3, all forming a framework essential for the country’s administration. However, given the population and diversity within these areas, many argue that restructuring these provinces into smaller units could enhance…
The Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) is reportedly considering Syeda Shehrbano Naqvi, a former Assistant Superintendent of Police, for a key position in women’s cricket management following the resignation of Tania Malik. While Shehrbano’s public service background is commendable, it raises questions about the PCB’s decision to prioritize bureaucrats over individuals with cricketing expertise. The leadership role in women’s cricket should ideally be filled by someone who understands the nuances of the game, the challenges players face, and the dynamics of cricketing culture. Former cricketers, who have firsthand experience and insights into the sport, are better positioned to advocate for the…
ISLAMABAD: On the occasion of the International Day to End Impunity for Crimes Against Journalists, Pakistan has called upon the international community and various organizations to hold Israel accountable for the recent massacre of journalists in Gaza. The United Nations General Assembly designated November 2nd as a day to highlight the need for protection and justice for journalists worldwide. Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif emphasized the critical role journalists play in keeping the public informed, stating that they often face numerous dangers and hardships in their pursuit of truth. He expressed regret over the violence and threats journalists endure, particularly in…
LAHORE: In a tragic incident, three family members—a man and his two sons—were shot dead in Lahore while heading to court for a scheduled appearance in broad daylight. According to police reports, unknown gunmen opened fire on Saggian Road, targeting the father and his sons as they traveled by rickshaw. Initial investigations suggest that the assailants arrived on motorbikes, with motives pointing to an old enmity behind the brutal attack. In the crossfire, another individual sustained injuries. Punjab Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz has taken notice of the incident, demanding a report from Lahore’s CCPO and expressing condolences to the bereaved…