فیچرڈ

Police have made significant progress in the murder investigation of IBA student Mir Raza Ali, who was abducted and later found dead in Karachi. Authorities have recovered the victim’s mobile phone and other evidence from the crime scene while denying reports that the body showed signs of torture or burning. According to police officials, the investigation into the killing of Mir Raza Ali, a resident of PECHS Society, is ongoing. The young student’s body was found on Wednesday from a hilly area in Gulistan-e-Johar Block 1 after he went missing during the night between Tuesday and Wednesday. Police said Mir Raza Ali had left his residence through an online taxi service before disappearing. Following the discovery of his body, a special investigation team and crime scene experts visited the area to collect evidence and determine the circumstances behind the murder. During the search operation, police recovered the victim’s iPhone from behind Nasir Tower Apartments, located around 200 metres away from the crime scene. The mobile phone is reportedly password-protected, and investigators are making efforts to access its data for further clues. Police also recovered a weapon cover, believed to be linked to the firearm used in the incident. Authorities have obtained the victim’s call data record (CDR) and are preparing a route map to track his movements before the murder. The police surgeon stated that Mir Raza Ali was shot once in the chest from the front. The bullet passed through his body, but officials found no evidence of physical torture or burning on the victim’s body. A team comprising SSP District East Zubair Nawaz Sheikh, SP Gulshan-e-Iqbal Ghulam Shabbir Saraki, SHO Ferozabad Adeel Afzal, and other investigation and crime scene experts inspected the site and surrounding areas. Investigators are currently examining approximately 50 phone numbers identified through the call data record. Police officials have claimed that around 50 percent of the case investigation has been completed and further developments are expected as evidence is analyzed. The recovered mobile phone, weapon-related evidence, and digital records are being considered important parts of the investigation. Police officials have assured that all available resources are being used to identify those responsible for the killing and bring them to justice.

  The Sindh School Education and Literacy Department has announced that all public and private educational institutions across the province will remain closed on Tuesday, August 4, 2026, in observance of the Chehlum of Hazrat Imam Hussain (RA). According to an official notification issued by the department, the holiday will be observed on 20th Safar 1448 AH, marking the annual commemoration of Chehlum. The decision applies to all government and privately managed schools operating under the administrative control of the School Education and Literacy Department throughout Sindh. The notification stated that the closure was approved following a decision taken during a meeting of the provincial Steering Committee held on February 12, 2026. It confirmed that all educational institutions under the department’s jurisdiction would remain closed on August 4 to facilitate the observance of the religious occasion. Chehlum is observed every year on the 20th of Safar and marks the conclusion of the 40-day mourning period following the martyrdom of Hazrat Imam Hussain (RA), his family members, and companions in the historic Battle of Karbala in 680 AD. The occasion holds immense religious significance for Muslims, particularly for those who participate in mourning gatherings and commemorative processions held across the country. As part of the annual observances, mourning processions featuring Alam, Tazia, and Zuljinah are expected to take place in several cities and towns across Sindh. Thousands of devotees traditionally participate in these events to pay tribute to the sacrifices made by Hazrat Imam Hussain (RA) and the martyrs of Karbala. In light of the large public gatherings expected during Chehlum, the Sindh Home Department has also announced additional security measures aimed at maintaining law and order throughout the province. A day before the school holiday notification was issued, the Home Department imposed a province-wide ban on pillion riding for the day of Chehlum. The temporary restriction is intended to strengthen security arrangements and minimise the risk of any untoward incidents during the religious processions and gatherings. Authorities have clarified that the ban forms part of a broader security plan implemented each year for major religious occasions. Law enforcement agencies have been directed to ensure strict compliance with the measures while facilitating the safe conduct of mourning events. In a separate notification, the Sindh Home Department also announced the extension of Section 144 across the province for another month. The renewed restrictions came into effect on August 1 and will remain in force as part of ongoing efforts to preserve public order. Under Section 144, several activities have been prohibited throughout Sindh, including wall chalking, public rallies, demonstrations, and the open display of weapons. The restrictions are designed to prevent any activities that could disrupt peace or pose security concerns during the mourning period. The provincial government has urged citizens to cooperate with the authorities and follow the issued guidelines to help ensure that Chehlum observances are conducted peacefully and securely across Sindh.

  Skardu: Rescue teams have recovered the bodies of eight climbers who went missing after a massive avalanche struck Broad Peak, one of the world’s highest mountains, in northern Pakistan. The tragic incident has shocked the international mountaineering community and prompted an extensive search-and-rescue operation in the Karakoram mountain range. According to officials, four additional bodies were located during the latest phase of the rescue mission, bringing the total number of recovered victims to eight. Earlier in the day, rescue teams had already found four bodies in the avalanche-hit area. Of the four bodies recovered most recently, three have been airlifted by helicopter to Skardu for identification and further legal formalities. Rescue authorities are continuing efforts to locate the remaining two missing climbers, despite extremely challenging weather conditions, difficult terrain, and the constant risk of further avalanches. The search operation remains active on Broad Peak, with rescue personnel working around the clock to find the missing mountaineers. Helicopters, local rescue teams, and experienced high-altitude climbers are taking part in the mission, while authorities continue to monitor weather conditions that could affect ongoing operations. Provincial Minister for Tourism Nek Nam Karim said the government is making every possible effort to locate the remaining climbers. He stated that the Tourism Department is providing full logistical support to rescue teams, including transportation, coordination, and essential equipment required for high-altitude search operations. The group of missing climbers represents several countries, highlighting the international nature of mountaineering expeditions in Pakistan. The team includes climbers from the United States, China, Nepal, Oman, and Pakistani mountaineer Sohail Sakhi, who remains among those unaccounted for. Authorities are maintaining close contact with the embassies of the affected countries and are keeping the families of the climbers informed about developments in the rescue operation. Broad Peak, located in Pakistan’s Gilgit-Baltistan region, is the 12th-highest mountain in the world, standing at ,8047 metres (26,401 feet)above sea level. It lies within the Karakoram mountain range, close to K2, and is regarded as one of the world’s most demanding climbing destinations. Every year, experienced mountaineers from across the globe travel to Pakistan in an attempt to summit the towering peak. However, climbing Broad Peak is extremely hazardous. Mountaineers face unpredictable weather, heavy snowfall, strong winds, crevasses, and the constant threat of avalanches. Even highly skilled climbers can find themselves in life-threatening situations due to rapidly changing mountain conditions. The latest tragedy serves as a painful reminder of the dangers associated with high-altitude mountaineering. Rescue officials have acknowledged that operations at such elevations are exceptionally difficult because of thin air, freezing temperatures, and limited access to the affected areas. As the search for the remaining missing climbers continues, hopes remain that rescue teams may still locate them. At the same time, condolences continue to pour in for the victims and their families. The incident has once again highlighted both the breathtaking beauty and the unforgiving dangers of Pakistan’s towering Karakoram mountains, where adventure and risk often go hand in hand.

  Lahore: Pakistan’s cultural capital has earned international recognition after being ranked among the world’s safest major cities in the 2026 Numbeo Crime and Safety Index. The latest report shows that Lahore recorded one of the lowest crime index scores among several globally recognized metropolitan areas, reflecting continued improvements in public safety and law enforcement. According to the 2026 rankings, Lahore outperformed a number of major international cities in terms of safety. The city ranked ahead of Karachi, New Delhi, Paris, London, Washington, New York, and Mexico City, highlighting its growing reputation as a comparatively secure urban centre. The results suggest that residents and visitors perceive Lahore as offering a safer environment than many other large cities included in the global survey. The report also indicates measurable progress over the past year. Lahore’s crime index declined from 36.8 in mid-2025 to 36.2 in mid-2026, while its safety index improved from 63.2 to 63.8during the same period. A lower crime index reflects reduced concerns about criminal activity, while a higher safety index indicates increased public confidence in personal security and the overall law-and-order situation. The improvement in these indicators demonstrates a positive trend for the city, suggesting that ongoing efforts to enhance public safety have produced encouraging results. Although no major city is completely free of crime, Lahore’s steady progress has strengthened its position among the safer urban centres included in the international rankings. Deputy Inspector General (Operations) Muhammad Faisal Kamran welcomed the report, saying the improved ranking reflects the Lahore Police’s continued commitment to maintaining peace and protecting citizens. According to the senior police official, the department has implemented a range of security measures designed to reduce crime, improve emergency response, and strengthen law enforcement across the provincial capital. He noted that increased police patrols, intelligence-based operations, the use of surveillance technology, and closer coordination between law enforcement agencies have all contributed to improving the city’s security environment. Authorities have also focused on enhancing community policing initiatives, encouraging greater cooperation between residents and police to help prevent criminal activities. Officials believe that these efforts have not only improved public confidence but have also made Lahore a more attractive destination for business, tourism, and investment. A safer urban environment is considered an important factor in promoting economic growth, encouraging commercial activity, and improving the overall quality of life for residents. The Numbeo Crime and Safety Index is widely referenced for comparing perceptions of crime and safety across cities around the world. The rankings are based on user-contributed data and reflect public perceptions of crime levels, personal safety during the day and at night, concerns about violent and property crimes, and confidence in local law enforcement. While authorities welcomed the latest ranking, they emphasized that efforts to improve security will continue. Police officials said they remain committed to further reducing crime through modern policing strategies, technological innovation, and stronger public engagement. Lahore’s improved standing in the 2026 Numbeo Crime and Safety Index represents a significant achievement for the city. The latest figures highlight continued progress in public safety and reinforce Lahore’s growing reputation as one of the safer major cities in the world, while authorities pledge to build on these gains in the years ahead.

Pakistan’s Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister, Ishaq Dar, has welcomed the decision by the Lloyd’s Market Association’s Joint War Committee to remove Pakistan from its list of regions classified as high-risk for war insurance. The announcement marks a significant development for the country’s maritime and trade sectors and is being viewed as a positive sign of increasing international confidence in Pakistan’s security and economic environment. Sharing his reaction on the social media platform X, Ishaq Dar described the decision as an important milestone that reflects the international community’s growing trust in Pakistan. He said the move demonstrates recognition of the country’s improving security situation and its continued efforts to strengthen economic stability and regional connectivity. The removal of Pakistan from the war risk insurance list is expected to provide several economic benefits. Ships entering Pakistani ports will no longer face the additional insurance premiums that are typically imposed on vessels operating in areas considered vulnerable to conflict or instability. As a result, shipping companies are likely to experience lower operational costs, making maritime trade with Pakistan more cost-effective and attractive. According to Ishaq Dar, reduced insurance expenses are expected to lower overall shipping costs, which will benefit both importers and exporters. Businesses engaged in international trade may see reduced transportation expenses, helping Pakistani products become more competitive in global markets while also decreasing the cost of imported goods. These developments could contribute to increased trade activity and support the country’s broader economic growth. The Deputy Prime Minister emphasized that the decision is not only an economic achievement but also a reflection of Pakistan’s improving international image. He noted that the country’s efforts to maintain stability, enhance security, and build stronger relations with international partners have helped restore confidence among global institutions and businesses. Ishaq Dar also expressed appreciation to the Lloyd’s Market Association for its constructive engagement throughout the review process. He acknowledged the organization’s professional approach and thanked its Joint War Committee for carefully assessing the situation before making its decision. He said the outcome reflects a balanced evaluation based on changing ground realities and demonstrates confidence in Pakistan’s progress. Industry experts believe that the removal of Pakistan from the war risk list could encourage greater commercial shipping activity at the country’s ports, including Karachi, Port Qasim, and Gwadar. Lower insurance costs may also attract more international shipping lines and investors, strengthening Pakistan’s position as an important regional trade hub. The development is expected to complement the government’s ongoing efforts to improve trade, attract foreign investment, and boost economic recovery. Reduced logistics costs could benefit multiple sectors of the economy, including manufacturing, agriculture, and exports, while creating a more favorable environment for business and investment. Overall, the decision by the Lloyd’s Market Association’s Joint War Committee is being regarded as a major positive step for Pakistan. It not only reduces financial burdens on international shipping but also sends a strong message that the country’s security and business environment are gaining international recognition. Government officials hope this milestone will further enhance investor confidence, promote trade, and contribute to long-term economic development.

SIALKOT: Government College Women University Sialkot (GCWUS) commemorated the birth anniversary of Madar-e-Millat Fatima Jinnah, honouring her remarkable role in Pakistan’s independence movement, her commitment to women’s empowerment, and her lasting contributions to nation-building. In a statement issued on Friday, the university described Fatima Jinnah as one of the country’s most influential national figures. Born in Karachi on July 31, 1893, she remained a steadfast supporter of her brother, Quaid-e-Azam Muhammad Ali Jinnah, and played a pivotal role in encouraging Muslim women to actively participate in the struggle for an independent homeland. The university also highlighted her leadership in establishing the All India Muslim League Women’s Committee in 1937, an initiative that helped spread the message of the Pakistan Movement among women across the subcontinent and strengthened their political participation. Paying tribute to her humanitarian efforts, GCWUS noted that Fatima Jinnah also devoted herself to the rehabilitation of refugees and the provision of medical assistance following the creation of Pakistan. The university said her vision, courage, and dedication continue to inspire generations, reaffirming her enduring place in the country’s history as a symbol of patriotism, resilience, and public service.

FAISALABAD : Chinese Ambassador to Pakistan, H.E. Mr. Jiang Zaidong, has reaffirmed China’s steadfast commitment to broadening cooperation with Pakistan, particularly in the critical sectors of poverty alleviation, agriculture, education, and vocational training. The Ambassador made these remarks during an interactive session at the University of Agriculture Faisalabad (UAF), where he met with Vice Chancellor Prof. Dr. Zulfiqar Ali, senior university officials, Chinese alumni, and representatives from academia and government. Addressing the gathering, Ambassador Jiang emphasized that as an agrarian economy, Pakistan holds immense potential to combat poverty through the revitalization and modernization of its agricultural sector. He announced that China intends to deepen collaboration in agricultural education, training, and technology transfer. Drawing on his country’s developmental journey, he underlined that strong leadership, consistent long-term policies, and a people-centered approach are fundamental to national progress. Praising UAF’s role in fostering bilateral ties, the envoy lauded the university and its Confucius Institute for significantly strengthening educational and cultural linkages between the two nations. He stressed that academic collaboration and scientific innovation remain vital pillars of the enduring strategic partnership between Pakistan and China. He remarked that Pakistan and China enjoy an exemplary friendship, built on a foundation of mutual trust, respect, and shared prosperity. In his response, Vice Chancellor Prof. Dr. Zulfiqar Ali expressed pride in the university’s role as a bridge between the two countries, facilitating academic partnerships, joint research, innovation, and people-to-people exchanges. He noted that 100 UAF faculty members are graduates of Chinese universities, and that several joint laboratories have already yielded patented technologies. The Confucius Institute at UAF, recognized as a top-model institute globally, has trained over 35,000 students in Chinese language and culture and operates branches across 13 Pakistani universities. As a founding member of the Confucius Institute Global Agriculture Alliance, UAF continues to serve as a primary gateway for Sino-Pak collaboration, offering its diverse climates and fields for testing Chinese technology. Following the meeting, the Ambassador toured the UAF Exhibition Centre for a briefing on the university’s key research milestones and technological innovations. He then visited the Confucius Institute, where he explored the Pakistan-China 75th Anniversary Art and Cultural Exhibition, inspected smart classrooms and cultural activity facilities, and enjoyed vibrant performances presented by the institute’s students. The visit concluded with a tree plantation ceremony, during which Ambassador Jiang and Vice Chancellor Prof. Ali jointly planted a sapling—a tribute to their mutual commitment to sustainable cooperation and a greener future. Earlier, the envoy received a warm welcome at the Administration Block from the Vice Chancellor and Dr. Saddam Hussain, Dean of the Confucius Institute. The high-profile engagement further cemented the longstanding partnership between UAF and Chinese institutions, reflecting both countries’ shared resolve to promote excellence in education, research, innovation, agriculture, and cross-cultural understanding.

LAHORE: Punjab Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz has intensified her engagement with Pakistan Muslim League-Nawaz (PML-N) legislators by holding regular meetings aimed at addressing their concerns and improving coordination between elected representatives and the provincial administration. As part of the initiative, the chief minister met PML-N members of the Punjab Assembly from Bahawalnagar on Friday to discuss the political situation, ongoing development projects, and issues affecting local communities. The meeting followed a similar interaction with lawmakers from Mandi Bahauddin held last week, reflecting a broader effort to strengthen communication within the party. The renewed outreach comes amid concerns voiced by several lawmakers, particularly those representing rural constituencies, who believe government officials and police are not responding adequately when they raise public issues on behalf of their constituents. Since assuming office in February 2024, Maryam Nawaz has maintained a policy of keeping political influence out of administrative and police appointments, insisting that postings and transfers should be based solely on merit. While the move has been praised as an effort to promote transparency and professionalism, some legislators have argued that it has reduced their ability to effectively advocate for their voters. Party sources said most lawmakers are not seeking authority over appointments but expect district officials and law enforcement agencies to respond respectfully and seriously when they present genuine public grievances. They believe stronger coordination between elected representatives and the administration is essential for resolving local issues and maintaining public confidence. According to senior party figures, the chief minister has been encouraged to hold regular consultations with lawmakers to ensure their concerns are heard directly while preserving her commitment to merit-based governance. The Punjab government has reiterated that its policy of transparent appointments remains unchanged. Officials maintain that the administration is committed to eliminating political interference in the bureaucracy while ensuring that public service delivery continues to improve across the province. The latest meetings are being viewed as an effort to strengthen internal party coordination, enhance communication with legislators, and ensure that public concerns are addressed more effectively without compromising administrative reforms.

Lahore: Preparations are in full swing for the second phase of the elections to the Azad Jammu and Kashmir (AJK) Legislative Assembly, during which polling will also be held for 12 seats reserved for Kashmiri refugees residing in Pakistan. These refugees migrated to Pakistan following the Partition of British India in 1947 and continue to elect their representatives to the AJK Legislative Assembly. Election authorities are set to distribute polling materials and election-related equipment to polling staff today. Polling for two refugee constituencies in Lahore will take place on Sunday, with thousands of registered Kashmiri refugee voters expected to cast their ballots. LA-34 Jammu Constituency For LA-34 Jammu, a total of 15 polling stations have been established in Lahore. These include one male polling station, one female polling station, and 13 combined polling stations. The constituency has a total of 5,965 registered voters, comprising 3,175 male and 2,790 female voters. Election authorities have set up 30 polling booths to facilitate voting. A total of 17 candidates are contesting the seat. Among the prominent candidates, Bilal Mukhtar Butt of the Istehkam-e-Pakistan Party (IPP) has been allotted the Eagle symbol, Chaudhry Abdul Qadir Chauhan of the Pakistan Peoples Party (PPP) will contest on the Arrow symbol, Raja Muhammad Sohail of Jamaat-e-Islami has been assigned the Scales symbol, while Nasir Hussain Dar of the Pakistan Muslim League-Nawaz (PML-N) will contest on the Lion symbol. LA-41 Valley Constituency Polling for LA-41 Valley will also be held on Sunday. The constituency has 6,410 registered voters in total. Out of these, 5,708 voters are registered in Lahore, 583 in Sheikhupura, 117 in Nankana Sahib, and two voters in Kasur. Election authorities have established 19 polling stations for the constituency, including 13 in Lahore, four in Sheikhupura, and one each in Nankana Sahib and Kasur. Notably, a dedicated polling station has been established in Kasur for just two registered voters, ensuring that every eligible voter is able to exercise their constitutional right. A total of nine candidates are contesting the LA-41 seat. The main contest is expected between PML-N candidate Muhammad Amir Shah and independent candidate Saba Diwan, who is backed by Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI). PPP candidate Ghulam Abbas Mir and IPP candidate Saeed Ahmad Dar are also among the contestants. Polling across both constituencies will be held from 8:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. on Sunday, with election officials making arrangements to ensure a smooth, transparent, and peaceful voting process.