KARACHI: A travel gang allegedly involved in smuggling narcotics under the guise of arranging Umrah trips has surfaced in Karachi, leaving an entire family stranded in Saudi Arabia, ARY News reported.According to reports, a family of four from Karachi’s Surjani Town traveled to Saudi Arabia for Umrah on September 8. The group included 23-year-old Zahida, 26-year-old Jamil, 28-year-old Zakir, and 45-year-old Anwari. Jamil, a laborer, is the father of a 20-day-old son, while Zahida is the mother of two young daughters.Family members said they lost contact with the group for 10 days, until September 19, when they received a call from a foreign number. They were informed that narcotics and other prohibited items had been recovered from the family’s luggage, and that their relatives were being held by Saudi authorities.The family alleges that their luggage, including ihram and other Umrah-related belongings, was provided by a local travel agent named Ali, who did not allow them to take their own items. Since the incident, the Umrah agent has reportedly gone into hiding.Relatives claim their family members are innocent and have been trapped in a false narcotics case. They have appealed to the Prime Minister, the Foreign Minister, and other top authorities to immediately intervene and secure the safe return of their loved ones.Also Read: Govt publishes list of 113 approved Umrah companiesEarlier, the Ministry of Religious Affairs took a key step to protect Umrah pilgrims from fraud by releasing a verified list of Umrah companies.According to the ministry, a list of 113 authorised Umrah companies has been published on its official website. The list will remain valid for the Islamic year 1447 Hijri.The ministry advised all Umrah pilgrims to verify the company details on the official website before making any booking. It further instructed that all payments must be made through banks directly into the company’s official account.The spokesperson also stressed that pilgrims must collect a payment receipt and a copy of the contract from the company to avoid any potential issues during their pilgrimage. 

Karachi/Dubai, September 22, 2025: The UAE Dirham (AED) holds steady at 76.64 Pakistani Rupee (PKR) today, mirroring yesterday’s rate with no fluctuation, as affirmed by top-tier financial sources tracking interbank and open market activities. AED to PKR- Daily Updates This consistency follows a remarkable June, when the AED leaped by 0.81 PKR, advancing from 76.44 PKR to 77.25 PKR and scaling a peak of 77.6111 PKR on July 1, 2025. The Dirham’s reliability underscores the United Arab Emirates’ astute economic strategies and its prominence as a global financial hub. Valuation Mechanism: Unraveling the AED-PKR Exchange Rate The AED-PKR rate is forged through a blend of fixed and floating currency systems. The UAE Dirham is anchored to the US Dollar at a fixed 3.6725 AED per USD, a policy maintained by the Central Bank of the UAE since 1997 to ensure monetary stability and attract international investment. This peg aligns the Dirham’s value with USD shifts, influenced by US Federal Reserve policies, oil market dynamics, and the UAE’s trade surplus. The Pakistani Rupee, however, floats freely, its value shaped by market supply and demand, driven by Pakistan’s export-import balance, foreign reserves, inflation rates, and geopolitical factors. Today’s rate of 76.64 PKR per AED on September 22, 2025, indicates a stable equilibrium, with the Dirham’s strength balancing the PKR’s economic pressures, providing a dependable measure for financial transactions. UAE’s Strategic Economic Policies: A Beacon of Innovation The UAE’s economic success is propelled by forward-looking policies that bolster the Dirham’s strength. Shifting from an oil-dependent model, the nation has embraced cutting-edge industries like artificial intelligence, renewable energy, and tourism, with Dubai and Abu Dhabi emerging as global economic powerhouses. The UAE Vision 2031 prioritizes fiscal agility, business-friendly regulations, and infrastructure growth, drawing over $20 billion in foreign investment in 2025, according to World Bank data. The Central Bank’s proactive management, supported by substantial reserves and inflation control, safeguards the Dirham’s value. This strategic vision sustains the currency at 76.64 PKR today, reinforcing the UAE’s status as a model of economic resilience. Impact on Pakistani Expats in UAE and Their Families For the 1.5 million Pakistani expatriates flourishing in the UAE, today’s AED rate of 76.64 PKR offers consistent remittance support. These workers, active in construction, hospitality, and professional sectors, remitted $717.2 million in June 2025, per State Bank of Pakistan data, cementing the UAE as Pakistan’s second-largest remittance source after Saudi Arabia. The stable Dirham ensures a reliable flow of funds, empowering families in Pakistan to invest in education, healthcare, and housing in regions like Punjab, Sindh, and Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, fueling local economic vitality and poverty reduction. However, the rate sustains high costs for importing UAE goods—such as electronics and groceries—challenging Pakistani consumers and businesses amid inflationary trends.

ISLAMABAD: The National Database Registration Authority (NADRA), the authorized body responsible for issuing the National Identity Card for Overseas Pakistanis (NICOP), has updated the NADRA NICOP fees for Pakistani nationals residing in South Africa. The NICOP is a vital document for overseas Pakistanis, offering a range of benefits and services to facilitate their connection with Pakistan.Family members of overseas Pakistanis living abroad are also eligible to obtain the NADRA’s National Identity Card for Overseas Pakistanis, which provides them with numerous advantages. The NICOP ensures that holders are recognized as Pakistani citizens while granting them access to various privileges. Benefits of NADRA NICOP for Overseas Pakistanis The NICOP offers the following key benefits to holders: Visa-Free Entry to Pakistan: NICOP holders can enter Pakistan using a foreign passport without requiring a visa. Recognition as Pakistani Citizen: Confirms the holder’s status as a Pakistani citizen. Property Transactions: Cardholders can buy and sell properties in Pakistan. Banking Services: The NICOP allows holders to open and operate bank accounts in Pakistan. Pakistani Passport: NADRA card holders are eligible to apply for a Pakistani passport. Voting Rights: Cardholders can exercise their voting rights while in Pakistan. Where to Apply For applicants in Pakistan, NICOP applications can be submitted at any nearby NADRA Registration Center (NRC). For those residing abroad, NADRA NICOP applications can be processed at Pakistani embassies in the respective countries. Additionally, NADRA has introduced the Pak-Identity app, enabling overseas Pakistanis to conveniently apply for the NICOP online from anywhere in the world. NADRA NICOP Fee for South Africa in Rupees NADRA has divided its fee structure for the National Identity Card for Overseas Pakistanis (NICOP) into two zones — Zone A and Zone B. South Africa falls under Zone B. As per the latest schedule, the NICOP fee for South Africa is as follows: Normal Category: PKR 5,500 (approximately USD 20, based on an exchange rate of 1 USD = 278 PKR). Urgent Category: PKR 8,300 (approximately USD 30). Executive Category: PKR 11,000 (approximately USD 40). Also Read: NICOP Guide for Overseas Pakistanis

ISLAMABAD: The Supreme Court of Pakistan has issued its written judgment in the government’s intra-court appeals regarding military trials, upholding the legality of such trials while granting convicted citizens the constitutional right to appeal, ARY News reported.The constitutional bench had earlier, on May 7, accepted the government’s appeals and overturned the five-member bench decision that had declared military trials unconstitutional.Justice Aminuddin Khan authored the 68-page verdict, with Justice Muhammad Ali Mazhar adding a 47-page concurring note. Justices Aminuddin Khan, Hasan Rizvi, Musarrat Hilali, and Shahid Bilal agreed with the decision, while Justices Jamal Mandokhail and Naeem Afghan wrote dissenting opinions.According to the detailed judgment, convicts sentenced by military courts must be granted the right to appeal before high courts. The court directed the government and parliament to enact legislation within 45 days to provide this right of appeal.The verdict emphasized that while the Army Act already contains procedural rules, the absence of an independent appeal forum for civilians makes the framework constitutionally incomplete. It further noted that military trials should adhere to the standards outlined in Article 10-A of the Constitution, which guarantees the right to a fair trial.The court observed that provisions of the Army Act cannot be entirely struck down, as Article 175(3) of the Constitution does not negate the existence of military courts. It, however, clarified that appropriate legal reforms are necessary to ensure due process for civilians tried under military law.The judgment recalled that during the hearings, the Attorney General repeatedly sought time to obtain government instructions on the matter of appeal rights. Even during the final hearing on May 5, he stated that if the court issued directions, legislation could be initiated in parliament. The court noted that the government has assured that its directives will be taken seriously.Concluding the matter, the Supreme Court ruled that while military courts can conduct trials, the government must immediately legislate to provide convicted citizens with an effective and independent right of appeal.Also Read: Supreme Court upholds military trail of civilians 

The State Bank of Pakistan (SBP) has published its most recent Mark-to-Market (M2M) currency rates for September 22, 2025, providing valuable information for corporations, investors, and individuals managing finances in Pakistan. Pakistan Currency Rates Today- Latest Updates These figures, gathered from brokerage firms and LSEG Workspace, represent the weighted average of interbank closing rates, with a specific focus on the US Dollar (USD) and other major currencies, including the Saudi Riyal (SAR), UAE Dirham (AED), Kuwaiti Dinar (KWD), Canadian Dollar (CAD), and Qatari Riyal (QAR). This report outlines today’s rates, compares them to September 19, 2025, values, and includes analysis from X posts to highlight ongoing trends and economic impacts. Today's Main Currency Rates in Pakistan  Below are the exchange rates for key currencies against the Pakistani Rupee (PKR) as of September 22, 2025, based on SBP’s M2M data, with comparisons to September 19 rates: Saudi Riyal (SAR):- Ready: 75.0385 (September 19: 75.0385, no change)- 1-Month: 75.3170 (September 19: 75.3170, no change)- 3-Month: 75.9153 (September 19: 75.9153, no change)- 6-Month: 76.4620 (September 19: 76.4620, no change)- 1-Year: 77.9043 (September 19: 77.9043, no change)The consistent SAR rate may lead to steady costs for remittances and Hajj/Umrah trips. UAE Dirham (AED):- Ready: 76.6320 (September 19: 76.6320, no change)- 1-Month: 76.9986 (September 19: 76.9986, no change)- 3-Month: 77.7150 (September 19: 77.7150, no change)- 6-Month: 78.3690 (September 19: 78.3690, no change)- 1-Year: 80.0798 (September 19: 80.0798, no change)The stable AED could mean consistent costs for commerce and transactions by expatriates. Kuwaiti Dinar (KWD):- Ready: 922.9113 (September 19: 922.9113, no change)- 1-Month: 927.9469 (September 19: 927.9469, no change)- 3-Month: 937.1763 (September 19: 937.1763, no change)- 6-Month: 945.2560 (September 19: 945.2560, no change)- 1-Year: 965.8362 (September 19: 965.8362, no change)The KWD’s steady value may help maintain costs for large transactions. Canadian Dollar (CAD):- Ready: 204.1927 (September 19: 204.1927, no change)- 1-Month: 205.4632 (September 19: 205.4632, no change)- 3-Month: 207.8909 (September 19: 207.8909, no change)- 6-Month: 210.1343 (September 19: 210.1343, no change)- 1-Year: 216.1510 (September 19: 216.1510, no change)The CAD’s stability could ensure steady costs for trade and Pakistanis living in Canada. Qatari Riyal (QAR):- Ready: 77.2186 (September 19: 77.2186, no change)- 1-Month: 77.5911 (September 19: 77.5911, no change)- 3-Month: 78.2978 (September 19: 78.2978, no change)- 6-Month: 78.9355 (September 19: 78.9355, no change)- 1-Year: 80.5928 (September 19: 80.5928, no change)The QAR's stable rates may mean consistent expenses for Pakistanis employed in Qatar. US Dollar (USD):- Ready: 281.4515 (September 19: 281.4588, declined by PKR 0.0073)- 1-Month: 282.7699 (September 19: 282.7776, declined by PKR 0.0077)- 3-Month: 285.3906 (September 19: 285.3560, rose by PKR 0.0346)- 6-Month: 287.7768 (September 19: 287.6912, rose by PKR 0.0856)- 1-Year: 293.9076 (September 19: 293.8907, rose by PKR 0.0169)The USD's slight dip could provide some relief for import costs; open market rates are approximately 281.50 for buying and 282.20 for selling. Other Major Currencies Other currencies also show shifts compared to September 19: Euro (EUR): Ready: 330.7195 (September 19: 330.9111, declined by PKR 0.1916), with 6-month at 342.9303. British Pound (GBP): Ready: 379.4388 (September 19: 379.5613, declined by PKR 0.1225), with 6-month at 389.5124. Swiss Franc (CHF): Ready: 353.7600 (September 19: 354.0808, declined by PKR 0.3208), with 6-month at 370.7146. Australian Dollar (AUD): Ready: 185.2654 (September 19: 185.6784, declined by PKR 0.4130), with 6-month at 190.6298. Singapore Dollar (SGD): Ready: 219.9840 (September 19: 219.9840, no change), with 6-month at 228.7057.  The rates are from the State Bank of Pakistan’s official M2M release.

ISLAMABAD: The Supreme Court of Pakistan has dismissed the appeal of death row convict Maaf Ali, upholding his double death sentence under terrorism charges, ARY News reported.During the hearing, defense counsel Salman Safdar argued that applying terrorism provisions to a case of spousal murder was unjustified.“How can terrorism clauses be invoked in a case where a man killed his wife?” he contended.However, Punjab Prosecutor Mirza Abid Majeed maintained that the convict had murdered his wife inside the Gujrat Family Court. This act alone was performed to spread fear and panic in a packed courtroom.“There are multiple Supreme Court of Pakistan precedents on the application of terrorism charges,” he said.Justice Athar Minallah, heading the three-member bench, observed that a woman seeking justice was killed inside the court itself.“Murdering a woman who came to court for justice constitutes terrorism. The convict deserves no leniency,” he remarked.Maaf Ali had murdered his wife, Naeema Bibi, in 2014 after she filed a dissolution of marriage case against him.He was awarded two death sentences under anti-terrorism provisions by a trial court, a ruling that the Lahore High Court later upheld.The Supreme Court has now affirmed the Lahore High Court’s decision, leaving the death sentence in place.Also Read: SC acquits death row convicts in Sindh Judge’s son murder caseEarlier, in a separate judgment, the Supreme Court of Pakistan had acquitted the accused in the murder case of Sindh High Court judge Justice Khalid Shahani’s son, citing flawed investigation and weak prosecution.According to reports, a short order authored by Justice Athar Minallah set aside the verdicts of both the trial court and the Sindh High Court, which had earlier convicted the accused. The detailed judgment will be issued later.The apex court acquitted Sikandar Lashari and Irfan alias Faheem, who had been handed the death penalty in the case.In 2014, Hunain Tariq, the son of Justice Khalid Shahani, was killed in Sindh, leading to the trial and conviction that has now been overturned.

RAWALPINDI: The Toshakhana-II case against former Prime Minister and Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) founder Imran Khan and his wife Bushra Bibi has entered its final stages, as the prosecution closed its arguments after recording statements from its last two witnesses, ARY News reported.The witnesses included NAB’s Investigating Officer Mohsin Haroon and FIA’s Investigating Officer Shahid Pervaiz, who will be cross-examined by the defense on September 24. In total, statements of 20 witnesses have been recorded, with cross-examination completed for 18 of them.Imran Khan and Bushra Bibi were presented in court during the proceedings. The PTI founder’s three sisters and Bushra Bibi’s sister-in-law, Mehrunissa, were also in attendance.Defense lawyers Arshad Tabraiz, Zaheer Abbas, and Barrister Ali Zafar appeared on behalf of Imran Khan, while Federal Prosecutor Zulfiqar Abbas Naqvi and Barrister Umair Majeed represented the prosecution.The hearing was conducted inside Adiala Jail by Special Central Judge Shahrukh Arjumand. The case was adjourned until September 24.Also Read: Toshakhana 2 case: PTI founder, Bushra Bibi request early hearing of acquittal pleasEarlier, incarcerated Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) leader Imran Khan and his wife, Bushra Bibi, had submitted applications to the Islamabad High Court (IHC) seeking an early hearing of their acquittal petitions in the Toshakhana 2 case.The applications were filed through Barrister Salman Safdar and Khalid Yousaf Chaudhry.The petitioners stated that the last hearing was held on January 28, and no subsequent proceedings have taken place since.They emphasised that their acquittal applications have remained pending for more than two months without a hearing and requested the court to fix the acquittal petitions for early hearing. The petitioners argued that the case is based on malice. Toshakhana reference The reference, which alleges that Imran failed to share details of the gifts he retained from the Toshaskhana (during his time as the prime minister) was filed by lawmakers from the ruling coalition last year.The Toshakhana issue became a major sticking point in national politics after the Election Commission of Pakistan disqualified the PTI chief for making “false statements and incorrect declaration” last month.The judgment added that the former premier was found to be indulged in corrupt practices under sections 167 and 173 of the constitution. “A criminal proceeding will be initiated against him over filing a false statement.”“His disqualification under Article 63, 1(P) has been for his current parliament membership”, the ECP said in its 36-page detailed judgment of the reference.“The amount in his bank account was around half of the value of the state gifts. Imran Khan was bound to declare the cash and bank details in his returns but he didn’t declare it,” ECP decision read.“Imran Khan being declared disqualified and unseated from his National Assembly seat,” the ECP said, adding: “He has been disqualified under Article 63, 1(P), over submitting a false statement and declaration”.Following this, the National Accountability Bureau (NAB) had launched probe against former prime minister Imran Khan in Toshakhana case .

KARACHI: Muttahida Qaumi Movement (MQM) Pakistan on Monday filed a petition in the Sindh High Court challenging the National Electric Power Regulatory Authority's (NEPRA) decision that allowed K-Electric (KE) to include unrecovered bills and electricity theft losses in its consumer tariff.The regulatory body granted K-Electric permission to recover Rs74 billion worth of losses from electricity theft and unpaid bills, which is expected to increase costs for honest consumers.MQM’s MPA, Muhammad Aamir Siddiqui, speaking to the media, condemned K-Electric’s actions as "racketeering" and "hooliganism." He described the NEPRA decision as an injustice and a form of collective punishment for Karachi’s residents.Siddiqui expressed concern that honest consumers, who pay their bills regularly, would now be forced to bear the cost of electricity theft.He further stated that NEPRA had overstepped its authority, asserting that the regulatory body did not have the right to issue such a verdict. He also pointed out that even the federal government had opposed the NEPRA's decision.[video width="848" height="478" mp4="https://arynews-1313565080.cos.ap-singapore.myqcloud.com/zip-archives/wp-content/uploads/2025/09/WhatsApp-Video-2025-09-22-at-3.38.36-PM.mp4"][/video]In the petition, MQM has requested the court to protect the rights of the public. The petition, submitted by MQM leader Aamir Siddiqui, names K-Electric as a respondent and challenges NEPRA’s SRO 1287 (I)/2025.The petition argues that NEPRA’s order from July 18, 2025, allows K-Electric to recover line losses and costs related to electricity theft from honest consumers, placing an unfair burden on them.Read More: NEPRA notifies KE’s multi-year tariff despite govt’s revision pleaMQM contends that NEPRA’s decision places the burden of K-Electric's failures and inefficiencies on consumers. This, according to the petition, will have serious repercussions for Karachi's residents, businesses, and industrial consumers, potentially crippling the city’s economy and exacerbating pressure on businesses already struggling.MQM further accused NEPRA of imposing a collective punishment on Karachiites by forcing consumers to bear the costs of electricity theft and line losses. The party argues that NEPRA’s actions go beyond its mandate and amount to an abuse of power.

SAHIWAL: Punjab Chief Minister (CM) Maryam Nawaz Sharif inaugurated the electric bus service in Sahiwal on Monday.Following the inauguration, Maryam Nawaz also boarded one of the electric buses and took a tour of the city.Last week, Maryam Nawaz launched eco-friendly electric buses.Speaking at the inauguration ceremony, she said 60 electric buses would be operational within Sargodha city and 105 in Sargodha division.A charging station has been established in Sargodha for these buses.Read more: Maryam Nawaz announces financial aid for reconstruction of flood-damaged homesPunjab CM Maryam Nawaz further announced that owners of livestock lost in the floods will also be compensated with Rs200,000 to Rs500,000, and the distribution of cheques will begin within five days.Highlighting the scale of devastation, she said the floods affected 27 cities and more than 5,000 villages. She asserted that had the Punjab government not acted promptly, the loss of life could have been far greater.Relief efforts enabled the safe evacuation of 2.5 million people to secure locations, along with the provision of food and other necessities.The chief minister added that not only were people rescued, but their livestock were also shifted to safer areas to protect livelihoods.

KARACHI:  "Don't harm our farmers to extend benefit to the farmers of another country," Sindh's senior minister Sharjeel Memon here said on Monday.Federal government should not deem itself as it is knowing all and over-intelligent, talking to media provincial minister said.He said the wheat is being imported while inflicting loss to our farmers. "For God's sake, come to senses, use your brain," Sharjeel Memon said.He said Pakistan faces shortage of wheat, "We have to import Rs 300 billion (US$ 1.2 billion) wheat to fill the gap," provincial minister said.He said that Sindh have 1.2 million tonnes of wheat in stock, Punjab is facing worst situation."We are ready to import the wheat at the rate of 9,000 rupees but offer 4,000 to our own farmers," Sharjeel Memon said.He said the PML-N should understand, "we are not the government's allies, we are extending them support"."If someone think himself over-intelligent and avoid consulting than what can we do," he said.Sharjeel said that Punjab didn't plan better to tackle flooding thus the inexperience increased flood devastation in the province.He said a man used ugly language and the government and the party officials launched campaign in his support, "It is regretful".

On the directives of the Prime Minister, the National Disaster Management Authority (NDMA) has dispatched the twenty-third humanitarian consignment, comprising one hundred tonnes of relief goods to the Palestinian people through a special flight from Allama Iqbal International Airport, Lahore.The aid package includes ration bags containing flour, rice, cooking oil, chickpeas, ready-to-eat meals and canned fruits.So far, a total of 2,227 tons of aid has been sent through twenty three relief consignments.Governor Punjab Sardar Salim Haider Khan was the chief guest at the send-off ceremony.Government officials, NDMA officers and representatives of Alkhidmat Foundation were also present on the occasion.Addressing the ceremony, the Governor Punjab appreciated the efforts of NDMA and other welfare organizations for ensuring the timely dispatch of aid and thanked them.Read more: Pakistan sends 100 tons of humanitarian aid to Gaza, PalestineHe reiterated the commitment that Pakistan stands with the people of Palestine in these difficult times and will make every possible effort to meet their needs.He said the oppressed Muslims of Gaza and Palestine are our brothers. He said innocent Palestinian people including children are being martyred on daily basis. He said Israel is violating humanitarian principles by bombing civilian areas in Gaza and Palestine.Sardar Saleem Haider urged the United Nations to take strict notice of Israeli terrorism in Gaza and that all the Islamic countries should collectively support Palestine.

KARACHI: A case has been registered at Aziz Bhatti police station, Karachi, over the incident of setting a dumper on fire at NIPA flyover, ARY News reported on Monday. According to police officials, the case has been lodged against 20 to 25 unidentified individuals. The FIR includes sections pertaining to property damage, rioting, and arson. The contents of the FIR state that the incident occurred after a motorcyclist woman was injured when hit by the dumper. Following the accident, enraged individuals set the dumper ablaze, causing further chaos. Police confirmed that investigations are underway to identify and apprehend those involved in the incident. Read more: Dumper set on fire after accident in Karachi Earlier, at least seven dumpers were set ablaze by enraged residents following the deaths of a brother and sister in a high-speed, heavy traffic accident on Rashid Minhas Road in Karachi.A speeding dumper ran over a motorcycle on Rashid Minhas Road in the Federal B Area, killing a 22-year-old woman, Mahnoor, and her 14-year-old brother, Ahmed Raza, while leaving their father critically injured.Following the incident, angry residents set fire to seven dumpers in the area.Heavy contingents of police and Rangers arrived at the scene and brought the situation under control. SSP Gulberg stated that the dump truck driver has been taken into custody.

Police and rangers in a joint operation in Kashmore district's katcha area against a bandit gang recovered an abducted policeman and killed three outlaws, a spokesman said on Monday.A spokesman of Rangers said that in an encounter with Khadim Bhayyo gang, who has been involved in kidnapping for ransom crime, recovered police constable Safdar Mehmood and killed three members of the gang.Dacoits slain in the encounter, identified as Sohbat Jagirani, Shahid Bhayyo and Shafique Dahani, spokesman said. "Dacoit Sohbat Jagirani was carrying a head money of five lac rupees".Moreover, nine accused were injured including notorious dacoit Khadim Bhayyo, Wajid Bhayyo, Malik Jagirani and others, according to spokesman. Khadim Bhayyo carrying a bounty of one million rupees on his head.The Bhayyo gang dacoits attacked a police picket at Qambrani Lado and abducted an on-duty police constable Safdar Mehmood, spokesman said.The gang later posted a video of the police constable on social media.Rangers' spokesman said that law enforcers demolished the hideout of dacoit gang during the operation.He appealed general public to point out the elements giving shelter to outlaws.

The Islamabad High Court (IHC) on Monday sought clarification from the chief commissioner in a case related to promotion and vacant posts, ARY News reported.Justice Mohsin Akhtar Kayani sought clarification while hearing a case regarding the promotion of an officer who was elevated to the position of Labour Inspector and later Labour Officer after superseding eight senior officials, here today.At the outset of the hearing, Justice Kayani questioned why the chief commissioner was holding dual charges, also serving as the chairman CDA.He remarked that it seemed the chief commissioner preferred the CDA chair more than his primary role.Justice Kayani directed the Chief Commissioner to focus on his actual responsibilities and examine why several posts under his authority remained vacant.Read more: CDA approves electric tram for IslamabadDuring the proceedings, Advocate Riaz Hanif Rahi pointed out that the Chairman CDA was simultaneously acting as Chief Commissioner.The IHC observed that according to judicial precedents, both offices must be held by separate individuals. Justice Kayani noted that despite numerous unemployed people, several positions, including four Labour Inspector posts in Islamabad, were still vacant.He compared the matter to the patwari system, where patwaris often delegate duties to clerks.The judge expressed astonishment that the officer in question was first superseded, later promoted after a writ petition was dismissed, and then transferred to a new cadre. “If he was such an extraordinary officer, he should have been directly appointed Deputy Commissioner,” Justice Kayani remarked.The hearing was adjourned until next month, with the court directing the chief commissioner to submit a detailed explanation.

KARACHI: Sindh Chief Minister (CM) Syed Murad Ali Shah met with Turkiye’s newly appointed Consul General, Ergul Kadak, and extended a warm welcome to him on assuming his responsibilities in Karachi.During the meeting, CM Shah highlighted the strong and historic relations between Pakistan and Turkey, assuring the Consul General of the Sindh government’s full cooperation. He urgedthe need to enhance bilateral trade and noted that both countries are already working toward this goal.Sindh CM Murad Ali Shah briefed the Turkish diplomat about the ongoing mega projects in Sindh, including road infrastructure, energy, and water schemes.He invited Turkish investors to explore opportunities in Sindh, particularly in Karachi’s public transport and infrastructure projects, given the city’s population of over 21 million people.Read More: CM Sindh Orders Action Over Sukkur Camel Incident Consul General Ergul Kadak expressed his keen interest in Turkish investors participating in Sindh’s development initiatives. Both sides agreed that the head of Sindh’s Investment Department will soon meet with the Turkish Consul General to discuss potential investment projects.The Turkish envoy praised Karachi, describing it as a wonderful city with hospitable people, and expressed hope for deepening cooperation in trade and investment.

LAHORE: The Provincial Disaster Management Authority (PDMA) Punjab has stated that the water levels remain normal at most places while Sutlej River has been in medium to low flood at various headworks.Director General PDMA Irfan Ali Kathia has said that water level is being dropped at flood-hit areas."The Sutlej River's water flow at Ganda Singh Wala has been 95,000 cusecs, while the river's water flow has been 81,000 cusecs at Sulemanki Headworks," PDMA said.Chenab River's water flow has been 55,000 cusecs at Marala Headworks, 24,000 cusecs at Khanki Headworks, 29,000 cusecs at Qadirabad and 35,000 cusecs Head Trimmu, PDMA said.The water level in river at Punjnad has been 1,18,000 cusecs, PDMA stated.The disaster management authority also said that the water level in Ravi River at Jassar has dropped to 6,000 cusecs, at Shahdara 9,000 cusecs, Balloki Headworks 28,000 cusecs and Head Sidhnai 30,000 cusecs.DG PDMA said that the rehabilitation work has been ongoing at flood affected areas of Punjab.It is to be mentioned here that the Indus River has been in low flood at Sukkur and Guddu barrages in Sindh, while in medium flood in downstream at Kotri Barrage.

ISLAMABAD: The Pakistan government has decided to take political and religious parties into confidence regarding the nationwide cervical cancer vaccination campaign, ARY News reported on Monday, citing sources.According to sources, the Ministry of Health is expected to initiate contact with political and religious leadership soon.Officials privy to the development revealed that efforts will be made to convince these parties about the importance of the Human Papillomavirus (HPV) vaccine.Political and religious leaders will be urged to support the campaign and issue public statements in its favor.The Pakistan government delegation will also hold meetings with prominent scholars from different schools of thought to seek their endorsement.In addition, political and religious figures will be requested to share video messages on social media to raise awareness about the benefits of the vaccine.Read more: Cervical cancer vaccination drive launched across PakistanSources further stated that women parliamentarians have already been briefed on the HPV vaccine as part of the government’s strategy to ensure broader acceptance and success of the campaign.It is to be noted that on September 15, Pakistan launched the country’s first-ever national cervical cancer prevention campaign.According to officials, the vaccination drive would run from September 15 to 27 across Punjab, Sindh, Islamabad, and Azad Kashmir.The federal and provincial governments, along with Azad Kashmir, have already been supplied with HPV vaccines and syringes.

SIALKOT: Rangpura police have successfully recovered a newborn girl who was allegedly kidnapped by a girl, ARY News reported on Monday.The six-month-old baby girl was abducted from a private hospital in Sialkot on Sunday. CCTV footage of the incident later surfaced, showing the moment of the kidnapping.The baby’s mother had reported that the suspected kidnapper, believed to be around 22 years old, had stayed inside the ward for nearly five hours before taking the child. She further stated that the woman disguised herself as a CCD officer to mislead attendants.Upon receiving the information, police acted swiftly and were able to recover the baby within three hours. The kidnapper, identified as Hadia, was found hiding on the roof of a shopping center.Read More: CCTV shows abduction of six-month-old girl from hospital in SialkotHadia's mother claimed that her daughter suffers from mental health issues, which may have contributed to the crime. She also stated that Hadia has a fascination with children and enjoys holding and feeding them.The police returned the recovered baby to her parents after ensuring her safety. Hadia has been arrested, and a case has been registered against her.After the baby's safe recovery, her family members expressed gratitude to the Punjab police and chanted slogans of "Punjab police Zindabad".[video width="640" height="360" mp4="https://arynews-1313565080.cos.ap-singapore.myqcloud.com/zip-archives/wp-content/uploads/2025/09/AQOwiMUOTeS-5jelRJCYFojvxEY9ETZ72lIYUZj_kOSs1auaAXYx1un7c69-KXYEVkECYKiKGTba7PGmG22QI8DQvD6RE0VIN6TbaneoqA-1.mp4"][/video]

Former federal minister Mohammad Ali Durrani has claimed that Indian operatives active in the Middle East are conducting espionage on behalf of Israel rather than India."I urge Saudi Arabia and other Gulf states to expel such agents from their territories," Muhammad Ali Durrani said while exclusively speaking with ARY News.Mohammad Ali Durrani warned that a 'network of espionage being constructed' through Indians in the Middle East resembles systems previously established in Iran.He claimed Israel had relied on Indians to build spying infrastructure in Iran and suggested a similar pattern is emerging across the region.He further speculated that there may have been an 'Indian intelligence role in the recent attack on Qatar', calling for investigations to determine whether Indian agents were involved.Read more: Iran hangs three men for spying for IsraelDurrani described Indian nationals present in Middle Eastern countries as a strategic threat to those states.Commenting on the Pakistan-Saudi Arabia strategic pact, Durrani said the pact should prompt other countries in the region to take similar security measures.On recent hostilities, the former information minister claimed that drones allegedly originating from India in the “Marka-e-Haq” were actually operated by Israel.He proposed that Pakistan’s retired military personnel—because of their training and expertise—should be offered to the Muslim world to form a dedicated force, arguing that retired Pakistani soldiers would be well suited to such a role.

KARACHI: The medium flood persists in Indus River at Kotri Barrage on Monday as the water level increasing constantly in river exerting pressure over the barrage.The water inflow at Kotri Barrage in downstream of the river, has surged to 3,64,000 cusecs while the water discharge has been 3,39,500 cusecs, according to the control room.The water upsurge in the river has flooded Manjhand, the largest taluka of Jamshoro district. Around 70 per cent of Manjhand has been drowned under the floodwater.The standing crops at hundreds of acres of land have been destroyed in flooding. The water has also standing at an old Hindu temple and the railway station.The floodwater has reached near the Indus Highway Sehwan and land link of several villages has been disrupted. People evacuating from the area after several villages of Jamshoro district completely flooded under the water.An earlier report said that the floodwater drowned 130 villages in Jamshoro district and submerged crops. Indus water has also entered in four villages near Petaro, while the land link of Buddhapur, Manzoor Abad and other villages in the vicinity was disrupted.The peak flood stream has passed through Guddu and Sukkur barrages as the water level in river is continuously receding, according to fresh floodwater data.The water inflow at Guddu has been 2,60,300 cusecs while the outflow has been 2,31,500 cusecs.The water inflow at Sukkur Barrage has dropped to 2,61,600 cusecs while the outflow has been 2,06,400 cusecs.