ISLAMABAD: Bestway Group on Saturday launched Chinese automaker Geely Auto in Pakistan, acquiring the Proton plant at Port Qasim, Karachi, for assembly.

Bestway Automotive, Geely’s sole authorised distributor, will handle sales and after-sales service.

The Group Managing Director, Irfan Sheikh, said the company would focus on localisation and build a charging network to support its long-term presence.

The launch includes three models: the EX2 compact electric hatchback, the EX5 electric SUV, and the Starray EM-i with range-extended EV technology.

Bestway said it has invested over $350 million in Pakistan and created 20,000 jobs in the last three years.

Geely Auto Inter­national Corporation Vice President Evin Ye said Pakistan was Geely’s first market in South Asia, adding that it was the only automaker with a low-orbit satellite network.

Published in Dawn, October 25th, 2026

• Calls for increased market supply, warns against hoarding and speculation
• PTI Kisan Wing welcomes wheat support price, seeks effective procurement mechanism

ISLAMABAD: Expressing concern over rising wheat prices, Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Ishaq Dar on Saturday directed federal and provincial governments to take all necessary measures, including increasing market supply, to bring prices under control.

Chairing a cabinet committee meeting to review the stocks, prices and supply of essential commodities, Mr Dar emphasised that safeguarding national food security and ensuring the availability of essential items at reasonable prices were government priorities.

The participants reviewed national reserves, procurement frameworks, domestic consumption and price trends. They were informed that stocks of essential commodities remained adequate, ensuring stability in local supplies.

The committee was briefed that domestic and imported wheat stocks were sufficient to meet requirements until the next harvest.

Regarding sugar, the committee was informed that its price in the domestic market remained well below the targeted retail price of Rs155 per kg, with surplus stocks available until the next crushing season.

Mr Dar directed federal and provincial authorities to closely monitor market networks, stressing that all organisations must show zero tolerance for hoarding and market speculation.

The meeting was attended by National Food Security and Research Minister Rana Tanveer Hussain, Climate Change Minister Musadik Malik, Special Assistant to the Prime Minister Tariq Bajwa, the secretaries of the national food security and research and commerce ministries, the chief secretaries of all provinces, and senior officials from relevant federal and provincial departments.

Implementation urged

In a related development, the PTI Kisan Wing has welcomed the government’s announcement of a wheat support price of Rs4,500 per maund (40kg), while expressing reservations about its implementation and demanding concrete measures to ensure farmers receive the announced rate for their produce.

A day earlier, Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif set the new indicative wheat support price for 2027, increasing it by Rs1,000 from the rate fixed last year.

According to a statement issued on Saturday, PTI Kisan Wing Central Secretary Information Khalid Nawaz Sadhraich said the announcement had come after a prolonged wait and persistent demands by farmers’ organisations, which had repeatedly urged the government to protect growers from rising production costs and financial losses.

He welcomed the announcement but said its significance would depend on whether the government ensured its implementation in letter and spirit. Merely announcing a support price would serve little purpose if farmers continued to be denied the promised rate when selling their wheat, he added.

Referring to previous wheat procurement seasons, Mr Sadhraich said farmers had repeatedly suffered despite government claims and official announcements regarding support prices.

“In the absence of an effective procurement mechanism, middlemen and commission agents exploited growers’ vulnerability, compelling them to sell their produce at throwaway prices, often without effective intervention by the relevant authorities,” he said.

He cautioned the government against repeating these mistakes, saying farmers could not afford another season of financial uncertainty after investing heavily in seeds, fertilisers, pesticides, diesel, electricity and irrigation.

“A support price announced on paper provides no meaningful relief unless farmers can actually sell their wheat at the declared rate,” he added.

Mr Sadhraich demanded that the government immediately announce a clear wheat procurement policy, ensuring that it purchased wheat directly from farmers at the announced rate.

He said the policy should spell out procurement arrangements and operational procedures and establish an effective monitoring mechanism to prevent exploitation by middlemen and ensure that the benefits reached genuine growers.

He also called for the timely establishment of procurement centres, transparent purchasing procedures and an accessible complaints mechanism so that small and medium-sized farmers could sell their produce without unnecessary hurdles or pressure from market intermediaries.

Published in Dawn, October 25th, 2026

SRI NAGAR – Former Indian occupied Jammu and Kashmir Chief Minister Farooq Abdullah made startling claims of Indian government’s fear of Pakistan, saying Modi cannot harm Kashmir because it fears Pakistan, as Islamabad continues all-out efforts to keep the Kashmiri struggle alive on the international stage.

Speaking at public gathering in Indian-occupied Jammu and Kashmir, the seasoned Kashmiri leader launched scathing attack on New Delhi’s policies, questioning Modi led government’s commitment to justice and highlighted Pakistan’s role in defending the rights of Kashmiris.

Abdullah claimed that Pakistan’s continued support for Kashmir remained a major factor in preventing India from taking harsher measures against the disputed territory, arguing that Islamabad has repeatedly stood by Kashmiris whenever their rights and interests have come under threat.

“Do you people really expect the government in Delhi to provide you with justice?” Abdullah questioned, expressing deep scepticism about New Delhi’s intentions towards the Kashmiri population.

Ex-CM claimed that India’s fear of Pakistan was preventing it from inflicting further harm on Kashmir, highlighting what he described as Islamabad’s protective role in the longstanding dispute. His comments carried importance given his decades-long political career in Indian-occupied Kashmir and his firsthand experience dealing with successive governments in New Delhi.

Military leadership reaffirms solidarity with people of occupied Kashmir on Youm-e-Istehsal

Abdullah acknowledged Pakistan’s efforts, saying Islamabad ensures that voices of Kashmiris reach the global community. Pakistan’s consistent advocacy prevented Kashmir issue from fading from international attention, providing Kashmiris with an important diplomatic platform to highlight their grievances.

He further criticised India’s approach towards Kashmir, questioning the sincerity of New Delhi’s policies and suggesting that the Indian government had failed to address the legitimate political aspirations and concerns of the Kashmiri people.

Calling for unity among Kashmiris, Abdullah warned that their future depended on their willingness to stand together and courageously defend their rights. He cautioned that failing to resist policies they considered unjust could have serious consequences for their political identity and future.

His statements raise fresh attention to Pakistan’s longstanding diplomatic position on Kashmir, particularly its efforts to raise the dispute at the United Nations and other international platforms.

For Pakistan, Abdullah’s statements is acknowledgment from senior Kashmiri politician of Islamabad’s continued involvement in the dispute and its role in keeping international attention focused on Kashmir.

His criticism of New Delhi shows political dissatisfaction that persists within occuppied territory, where questions surrounding democratic rights, political representation and the region’s future remain deeply contested.

The post ‘India cannot Silence Kashmir Because it Fears Pakistan,’ says ex-CM Farooq Abdullah appeared first on Daily Pakistan English News.

LAHORE – The high-profile sexual assault case of Azerbaijan citizen Diana prompted stern action by Punjab Police, but the women left Pakistan and now takes U-Turn on serious allegations.

Police sources claiming that Rs20 million was paid to the girl for statement in favour of the accused. The controversy deepened after Punjab Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz raised allegations of financial influence and judicial bribery, while a Lahore court sent accused Ahmed Tanveer to jail on a 14-day judicial remand.

What began as serious sexual assault complaint involving three men and two women has now turned into a controversy surrounding money, influence, conflicting statements and questions about the justice system.

According to police sources, Diana, who initially accused three men of sexually assaulting her in Lahore, allegedly gets Rs20 million before publicly withdrawing her allegations against Ahmed Tanveer. The development came after clips surfaced on social media in which Diana declared Ahmed Tanveer innocent, claimed that her previous statements had been made under pressure and appealed for the case to be closed. However, the alleged financial transaction has not been independently verified, and the accused’s lawyer has denied knowledge of any settlement.

Police sources claim that Ahmed Tanveer belongs to an influential and financially powerful family, with his father reportedly being a prominent contractor. According to the sources, relatives of the accused and his legal representative allegedly contacted Diana by telephone in an attempt to persuade her to record a statement supporting Ahmed Tanveer.

The sources further alleged that once Diana agreed, Ahmed Tanveer’s father travelled from London to Azerbaijan. They claim that Diana subsequently received Rs20 million and is currently staying in Dubai. The allegations raised questions about whether the complainant’s sudden change of position was voluntary or influenced by financial considerations. However, Ahmed Tanveer’s lawyer, Safdar Shaheen, categorically rejected the claims involving him.

He said he had never visited Azerbaijan, never met Diana and never spoken to her over the telephone. He also maintained that he had no knowledge of any financial deal in the case.

The case attracted further attention after Punjab Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz posted a statement on social media, referring to allegations that a wealthy accused person’s family had offered between Rs15 million and Rs20 million to persuade a woman to withdraw her allegations.

CM pointed out that the woman’s statement had already been recorded before a magistrate under Section 164 of the Code of Criminal Procedure. In an even more serious allegation, she claimed that a judge who granted bail to the accused had allegedly been bribed. She warned that if such allegations were proven, they would expose serious concerns about the integrity of the justice system and the possibility of wealthy individuals using financial pressure to influence criminal proceedings.

She vowed to monitor such cases and ensure that no accused person could escape accountability because of wealth, influence or powerful connections. Maryam Nawaz stressed that justice should never be for sale and that nobody should be above the law. The bribery allegations have not been established by a court.

The controversy intensified on Friday when multiple videos featuring Diana began circulating on social media. In the recordings, Azerbaijani woman withdrew her earlier accusations against Ahmed Tanveer, saying he had neither raped her nor stolen her mobile phones. Diana claimed that her previous allegations had been made under pressure and urged the authorities to end the criminal proceedings.

In another video, she made a separate allegation concerning her departure from Pakistan. She claimed that she had wanted to appear personally before a court but was told that her life was in danger and was subsequently forced to leave the country.

Diana also announced that she had forgiven the other two accused, Mohsin and Ali Zain. She mentioned not wanting to pursue the matter further and requested that her name not be dragged into personal disputes. Her latest position sharply contradicts her original complaint and her earlier statement recorded under Section 164, adding another layer of complexity to the investigation.

Amid the controversy, a Lahore court on Saturday ordered Ahmed Tanveer to be sent to jail on a 14-day judicial remand. Judicial Magistrate Ahmed Saeed Saim announced the decision after hearing arguments on the police application. The court also directed investigators to arrange Ahmed Tanveer’s medical examination and complete the identification parade.

During the hearing, defence lawyer Safdar Shaheen Pirzada alleged that his client had been physically tortured throughout the night. The magistrate asked Ahmed Tanveer directly whether he had been tortured and wanted a medical examination.

The accused confirmed that he had allegedly been subjected to torture and requested medical assessment. His lawyer also argued that police were attempting to present an old incident as a fresh case despite Ahmed Tanveer having previously obtained bail.

The case first attracted public attention in the final week of September when Diana accused several individuals of sexually assaulting her in Lahore. According to the FIR registered at Defence C Police Station, she alleged that two women, Muskan and Nimra, and three men, Mohsin, Ahmed Tanveer and Ali Zain, were involved in the incident.

Diana claimed that she was given an intoxicating substance before being subjected to gang rape. She further alleged that her belongings and mobile phones were stolen and that the accused subsequently abandoned her near the airport.

Following the complaint, police launched an investigation, collected forensic evidence and DNA samples from the alleged crime scene, and reportedly recovered a vehicle believed to have been used during the incident. Several suspects, including Mohsin, were detained during the investigation.

During earlier court proceedings, Muskan told investigators that she first met Diana at a party, where they exchanged telephone numbers. According to Muskan, Diana had also offered to invite her and Nimra to other parties. Mohsin, another principal accused, claimed that he first met Diana on September 25 at a private housing society.

Meanwhile, Ali Zain presented a different account of the alleged incident. He claimed that Diana became uncontrollable during a gathering at an apartment in Defence and later became involved in a physical altercation inside a vehicle near Ghazi Road.

According to Ali Zain, Diana subsequently forced her way out of the vehicle. These claims remain the accounts of the accused and have not been judicially established.

The investigation also sparked controversy over Diana’s travel history and personal circumstances. Reports suggested that investigators had identified inconsistencies in certain statements and travel-related details. Separate media reports raised questions about her alleged marriage to a Pakistani man, while a video purportedly showing Diana in bridal attire also circulated.

Earlier this month, Lahore Police supervised Diana’s return to Azerbaijan. However, her subsequent claim that she had wanted to appear before the court but was forced to leave Pakistan has introduced further questions about the circumstances of her departure.

‘I Was Pressured’: Azeri woman Diana withdraws Rape Allegations against Pakistani man

The post Was Azeri Woman Diana offered Rs20 Million to drop Rape Case against Lahore’s Influential Man? appeared first on Daily Pakistan English News.

KABUL – Travelling between Pakistan and Afghanistan is becoming easier as Afghan airline Kam Air announced major expansion of its Kabul-Islamabad operations, increasing flight frequency to 7 days a week from November 1, 2026.

The move comes amid growing demand for air travel between the two neighbouring countries, offering passengers more flexibility, improved connectivity and additional options for onward journeys to Saudi Arabia and other Gulf destinations.

Kam Air confirmed the development through its official X account on October 23, announcing that daily flights between Kabul and Islamabad would begin on November 1. The announcement marks a significant increase in the airline’s existing operations rather than the introduction of an entirely new route.

Kam Air is operating four flights per week between Kabul and Islamabad, although the frequency varied depending on schedules. Under the revised arrangement, the airline plans to operate seven weekly flights in each direction, ensuring daily connectivity between the two capitals. The expansion is expected to benefit business travellers, families, overseas workers and passengers who frequently travel between Pakistan and Afghanistan.

The direct flight between Kabul and Islamabad typically takes around one hour to one hour and ten minutes, covering an aerial distance of approximately 350 to 352 kilometres.

Passengers are advised to check the airline’s updated timetable, as departure times and flight availability may change.

The expansion also comes weeks after Pakistan International Airlines (PIA) and Kam Air entered into an interline cooperation agreement in September 2026, aimed at improving international travel connections. Under the arrangement, passengers travelling from Kabul can access connecting services through Islamabad to Dammam, Saudi Arabia, with plans to extend connectivity to other Gulf destinations.

The agreement allows eligible travellers to book connecting journeys under a single ticket arrangement, while through-checked baggage can reduce the need to collect and recheck luggage during transit.

Depending on immigration requirements and individual travel arrangements, passengers may also be able to transit through Islamabad without completing entry immigration procedures. The cooperation could strengthen Islamabad’s position as an important transit point for Afghan passengers travelling to the Middle East.

The increase to daily operations could reduce waiting times between available flights and provide greater flexibility for passengers coordinating business meetings, family visits and international connections.

PIA to fly Islamabad–Birmingham 3 Times Weekly, expanding UK Operations

The post Kabul-Islamabad Air Route gets Daily Flights from November 1 appeared first on Daily Pakistan English News.

LAHORE – A routine online taxi booking has turned into nightmare for 26-year-old driver, who mysteriously disappeared while travelling from Lahore to Gujranwala, with his mobile phone suddenly going silent.

The missing driver, identified as Nauman Riaz, reportedly left his home last night after accepting passenger ride to Gujranwala. However, what was supposed to be a routine journey took an alarming turn when he failed to return home.

Nauman remained reachable on his mobile phone until late at night. His phone was subsequently switched off, leaving his relatives deeply concerned about his safety and whereabouts. As hours passed without any contact, the family feared that the young driver might have been kidnapped during the journey.

After complaint filed by Nauman’s brother, Suleman, Factory Area Police in Lahore registered kidnapping case and launched an investigation into the mysterious disappearance. Police are now investigating the circumstances surrounding the incident to establish what happened to the driver after he left Lahore for Gujranwala.

The case raised concerns about the safety of online taxi drivers, particularly those accepting intercity bookings and travelling long distances with unfamiliar passengers.

However, authorities have not yet confirmed an abduction, and the identity of the passenger, the driver’s last known location and the circumstances of his disappearance remain unclear.

inDrive rider disappears with food worth Rs45,000 in Lahore

The post Online Taxi Driver goes missing during Lahore-to-Gujranwala Ride appeared first on Daily Pakistan English News.

RIYADH – Pakistani expatriates living in Saudi Arabia can now avoid long queues and long waiting hours as Pakistan Embassy in Riyadh has introduced online appointment system for passport renewal and new passport applications.

The new facility is expected to bring relief to hundreds of overseas Pakistanis who previously had to spend considerable time waiting for passport-related services at the embassy.

Under newly launched system, Pakistani citizens can book appointments directly through the embassy’s official website by selecting available time slots. Applicants can then visit the embassy at their scheduled time to complete the required formalities for obtaining or renewing their passports.

Assistant Director Passport Sajid Mahmood said the initiative has been introduced to make passport services faster, easier and more convenient for Pakistani nationals residing in Saudi Arabia. He explained that the online booking facility would help applicants avoid unnecessary waiting and allow embassy staff to manage passport applications more efficiently.

With hundreds of appointments expected to be accommodated across different time slots, the system aims to reduce overcrowding and improve the overall experience for visitors.

Alongside the announcement, Pakistan Embassy in Riyadh issued an important advisory urging Pakistani expatriates to stay away from unauthorized agents and middlemen. Officials advised citizens to book appointments exclusively through the embassy’s official website to avoid potential scams and fraudulent activities.

The embassy said applicants should rely on official channels rather than individuals claiming to arrange passport appointments on their behalf. The development marks another step toward improving consular services for Pakistanis in Saudi Arabia, with the online appointment system expected to save time, simplify passport procedures and make embassy visits more organized.

For Pakistani expatriates planning to renew their passports or apply for new ones, the message is clear: book your appointment online, arrive at your scheduled time and avoid unauthorized agents.

Pakistan to make e-passports mandatory from THIS date as schedule changed

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LAHORE – Pakistan Cricket Board named 14-member squad for next month’s two-match Test series against Sri Lanka, with Babar Azam named captain and three uncapped players earning their first call-ups in a selection that brings fresh talent into the national red-ball setup.

The squad is a blend of experienced campaigners and emerging cricketers, with Sameer Minhas, Mohammad Taha and Mohammad Suleman receiving their maiden Test squad selections.

Men in Green will begin preparations with 14 players before adding two more fast bowlers following a three-day warm-up fixture in Islamabad. The additional pacers will be chosen from a 13-member Patron’s XI squad, giving the selectors another opportunity to assess bowling options before the opening Test.

New Players in Pakistan’s Test Squad

Babar Azam will lead a squad that includes established names such as Saud Shakeel, Salman Ali Agha and Mohammad Abbas, alongside several younger players looking to make their mark in international cricket.

Sameer Minhas, Mohammad Taha and Mohammad Suleman are among the notable inclusions, having been selected for the national Test squad for the first time.

The selection also includes Abdullah Fazal, Arafat Minhas, Azan Awais and Razaullah, while Ghazi Ghori and Saad Baig have been named as wicketkeeping options.

Left-arm spinner Ali Usman has also secured a place in the squad.

Pakistan’s 14-Member Test Squad

Pakistan will open the series against Sri Lanka at Rawalpindi Cricket Stadium on November 9, with the first Test scheduled to conclude on November 13. The teams will then travel to Lahore for the second and final Test at Gaddafi Stadium, scheduled from November 17 to 21.

Pakistan vs Sri Lanka Test Series Schedule

Before the international series begins, a three-day practice match will be held at Islamabad Club from November 4 to 6. Saad Baig has been entrusted with the captaincy of the 13-member Patron’s XI, which includes several players also named in the national Test squad.

The fixture will carry additional significance for the fast bowlers, as two of them will be promoted to Pakistan’s Test squad after the match.

The Patron’s XI features Mohammad Salman, Shoaib Akhtar Junior, Ali Shabbir, Saqib Khan, Ubaid Shah and Mohammad Tayyab Arif among its bowling options.

Pakistan defeat Sri Lanka by 37 runs in Tri-Nation ODI opener

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LAHORE – Rainfall and hailstorms lashed several parts of Lahore on Saturday, bringing cool weather in metropolis.

Several localities gets showers along with hailstones, while Meteorological Department has forecast further rain and thunderstorms in the city over the next 24 hours. Rain and hail were reported in Gajjumata, Nishtar, Chungi, Walton and Harbanspura. Gulberg, DHA, Model Town and areas along Raiwind Road also experienced similar weather conditions, with rainfall and hailstones reported across different neighbourhoods.

Lahore’s temperature was recorded at 23°C. According to the Meteorological Department’s accompanying forecast, the minimum temperature is expected to reach 17°C, while the maximum could rise to 29°C.

PMD predicted another spell of rain accompanied by thunderstorms across Lahore during the coming 24 hours. Some areas may also experience hailstorms, potentially bringing further changes in local weather conditions.

According to the supplied three-day forecast, Lahore is expected to experience thunderstorms on Saturday, October 24, followed by sunny weather on Sunday and Monday.

Despite the recent rainfall and the possibility of additional showers, the three-day outlook indicates a return to sunny conditions on Sunday and Monday.

Continental air is currently prevailing over most parts of the country, while a shallow westerly trough is passing over Kashmir and adjoining areas. These atmospheric conditions form part of the prevailing weather pattern across the region. Mostly dry weather is expected to continue across the majority of the country on Sunday. Northern areas are likely to experience cold conditions, particularly during the morning and nighttime hours.

During the preceding 24 hours, most parts of Pakistan experienced dry weather, while colder conditions prevailed in the northern areas during the morning and night. However, isolated locations in upper Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, the Potohar region and northeastern Punjab received rainfall accompanied by winds and thunderstorms.

Capital Islamabad, and other cities also received rainfall at several locations over the weekend.

Torrential rain disrupts traffic, floods streets in twin cities

The post Lahore Weather Update: Rain, Hailstorms cools city, More showers expected appeared first on Daily Pakistan English News.

LAHORE – The man accused of physically attacking young woman riding a scooter on Lahore’s Mozang Link Road has been granted bail, drawing strong reaction from Punjab Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz.

The accused, identified as Syed Mudassirul Hassan, was ordered to be released on Saturday against surety bonds worth Rs100,000, just a day after police arrested him over the alleged assault. The court directed authorities to release the suspect if he was not wanted in connection with any other criminal case.

The decision came despite a request from Mozang police, who had produced the accused before the court and sought his judicial remand, which would have resulted in his transfer to jail.

Punjab Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz lamented the development with a brief but pointed response on social media. Reacting to news of the suspect’s release, the chief minister wrote just one word on X: “Regrettable.” Her reaction brought renewed attention to the case, which involves allegations that a young woman travelling on a scooter was stopped and subjected to physical violence on Mozang Link Road.

Lahore police arrested Mudassir ul Hassan on Friday after the assault on young girl. However, the legal proceedings took a different turn on Saturday when the court granted him bail instead of ordering his detention on judicial remand as requested by police.

The suspect’s release on bail does not amount to an acquittal, and the allegations against him remain subject to legal proceedings. The case has once again brought the issue of women’s safety on Lahore’s roads into focus, particularly the protection of women travelling independently on motorcycles and scooters.

CM Maryam Nawaz slams ‘Spoiled Brats’ after Quick Action in Lahore Petrol Pump Assault Case

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Pakistani actress Saeeda Imtiaz is in the spotlight with her latest bold look as she dropped pictures wearing ink-blue lingerie, pink slippers, and a Barbie-themed purse, leaving social media users with plenty to say about her unusual combination.

The actress is known for her bold fashion look and glamorous photoshoots, she keeps her followers guessing about her next look. Who needs a red carpet when pink slippers and a Barbie purse can make an appearance on Instagram? The actress share a caption that read, “The freedom of walking out in your Nightie is a bliss. Late night vibes”.

Imtiaz’s latest photoshoot showed different fashion picture, prompting some fans to wonder whether the traditional looks they admired on Tamasha have officially taken a back seat.

Reactions

The actress spends most of her time abroad with her family and occasionally visits Pakistan for professional commitments. Away from her acting projects, she continues to attract attention through her Instagram updates and daring fashion choices.

The actress has built her career through Pakistani films, including Wajood with Danish Taimoor, Qulfee alongside Shahroz Sabzwari, Thori Setting Thora Pyar, Kaptaan, and Rasta. Her recent romantic film, Qulfee, has also attracted attention following its cinema release.

The actress became even more familiar to Pakistani audiences after participating in the popular reality show Tamasha. Fans appreciated her Eastern outfits and polite behaviour, with many fans admiring her traditional appearance and well-mannered personality.

Has Pakistani actress Saeeda Imtiaz passed away under mysterious circumstances?

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ISLAMABAD – Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif is expected to embark on a four-day official visit to Russia starting November 30, with a high-profile meeting with President Vladimir Putin likely to focus on discounted oil and gas, trade expansion, investment and the revival of Pakistan Steel Mills.

Sharif’s upcoming visit is said to be major step in strengthening Pakistan-Russia relations as Islamabad looks to secure new economic opportunities and deepen cooperation with Moscow. The two leaders are expected to hold wide-ranging talks covering bilateral relations, regional security, energy cooperation and international developments. However, the final dates and detailed schedule of the visit have yet to be officially announced.

Pakistan will be exploring long-term arrangements for importing Russian crude oil and gas at discounted prices. With energy costs placing considerable pressure on Pakistan’s economy, any favourable agreement with Moscow could help reduce import expenses and strengthen energy security.

The revival of Pakistan Steel Mills in Karachi is another major issue expected to feature in the discussions. Both sides could explore Russian technical assistance, investment and modernisation plans to bring the struggling industrial facility back into production. Agriculture, food security, industrial development and energy infrastructure projects will also be part of the broader economic agenda.

The proposed visit is expected to include Pakistan-Russia Business Forum, bringing together approximately 100 prominent Pakistani business figures and representatives of multinational companies. Business leaders from textiles, agriculture, food processing, pharmaceuticals, manufacturing and energy are expected to hold direct meetings with Russian companies to explore investment opportunities, joint ventures and new export markets.

Another key issue will be overcoming banking restrictions and payment difficulties that have complicated trade between the two countries. Officials are expected to discuss alternative payment systems, potentially including transactions in Pakistani rupees and Russian rubles, to make bilateral trade easier.

Beyond economic matters, Shehbaz Sharif and Putin are likely to discuss Afghanistan’s security situation, stability in South and Central Asia and closer coordination through the United Nations and Shanghai Cooperation Organisation.

The prime minister may also visit St. Petersburg for a day and meet Pakistani students studying at Russian universities to discuss educational opportunities and challenges.

The upcoming trip follows an earlier planned visit that was postponed due to unavoidable circumstances. The major objectives of that programme, including the business forum, are expected to remain unchanged.

Russia offers Discounted Oil to Pakistan amid choking Fuel Supply, confirms Ambassador

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RAWALPINDI – A robbery has been reported at residence of former prime minister and senior Pakistan Peoples Party (PPP) leader Raja Pervaiz Ashraf in Dhok Amb, Jatli, Rawalpindi, with AC, doors, windows and other household valuables stolen,

According to police, the incident was reported after several items were found missing from the residence, where locks at various locations were also found broken, raising questions about how the premises of ex-PM were accessed.

First Information Report (FIR) was registered at Jatli Police Station on the application of Tayyab Fazal, personal secretary to the former prime minister. FIR lists range of items stolen from the residence, including three ACs, two doors, two windows, carpets, crockery, decorative items and a grass-cutting machine.

Police sources have estimated the total value of the stolen property at around Rs270,000.

The FIR mentions that a domestic worker assigned to the residence is allegedly missing. Police personnel deployed on duty reportedly said the worker had been absent since the previous night and that his mobile phone was switched off.

Police registered the case and the circumstances surrounding the reported burglary remain under investigation. The incident raised questions about security arrangements at the residence and how the alleged thieves managed to remove multiple household items, including doors and windows.

Rs4 Million Stolen from House of Foreign Office Grade-4 Worker in Gujrat

The post Robbery at ex-PM Raja Pervaiz Ashraf’s Rawalpindi House raises Security concerns appeared first on Daily Pakistan English News.

ISLAMABAD – Residents of Islamabad have been advised to plan their journeys as per recent advistory as two key roads connecting Kashmir Chowk will remain completely closed on October 24 and 25, according to traffic advisories issued by Islamabad Traffic Police (ITP).

The roads closed for these period include one linking Rawal Dam Chowk with Kashmir Chowk and the section connecting Serena Hotel, also referred to as Serena Chowk, with Kashmir Chowk. The restrictions are expected to affect commuters travelling between central Islamabad, Rawalpindi, Park Road, Lehtrar Road and surrounding areas.

The closures come amid ongoing construction work on the Kashmir Chowk Underpass along Club Road. Restrictions on the Rawal Dam Chowk–Kashmir Chowk route have reportedly been in place since around October 15 or 16, initially continuing until further notice. The latest advisory specifies a complete closure of both road sections for October 24 and 25.

Islamabad Traffic Police has outlined several alternative routes for motorists to minimise disruption during the closure period. People travelling from G-5, the Secretariat and Serena Hotel towards Rawalpindi can use Srinagar Highway via Ninth Avenue or travel along Srinagar Highway towards Mehrabad and Peshawar Road. Another option is to take the Lake View U-turn and proceed via Murree Road or Club Road, depending on their destination and prevailing traffic conditions.

Motorists approaching from Rawal Dam Chowk, Park Road and Lehtrar Road have been advised to use Srinagar Highway, Seventh Avenue, Shakarparian Road, Tulip Hotel and Rawal Dam Road as an alternative route.

Travellers heading towards Murree and Bhara Kahu can take the route through Faizabad, Faisal Avenue, Zero Point, the Srinagar Highway underpass and Jinnah Square before continuing towards Koriyanwala Chowk and their onward destinations. For traffic entering Islamabad from Rawalpindi, the recommended route includes Ninth Avenue, Faqir Aipee Road and Srinagar Highway.

Meanwhile, commuters travelling from Park Road and Lehtrar Road towards Islamabad can use Tulip Hotel Road, Garden Avenue, Shakarparian Road and Seventh Avenue. Some locations mentioned in the traffic guidance may appear under slightly different spellings, including Koriyanwala Chowk and Faqir Aipee Road.

Traffic police have urged motorists to factor the road closures into their travel plans and allow an additional 20 to 25 minutes for their journeys. Authorities have also warned that diverted traffic could increase congestion on surrounding roads, potentially affecting travel times beyond the immediate closure areas.

Traffic personnel will be deployed at key points to guide motorists, manage diversions and help maintain the flow of vehicles. Commuters have been advised to follow instructions from on-duty officers and check for updated route information before setting out. Traffic updates are available through Islamabad Traffic Police FM 92.4 and the official social media channels of Islamabad Police.

Who will Pay for over 1000 Containers in Islamabad amid PTI protest?

The post Islamabad Traffic Plan for October 24–25; Check Road Closure, Alternative Routes appeared first on Daily Pakistan English News.

KARACHI – Pakistani actress Aymen Saleem, daughter of former cricketer Saleem Yousuf, stepped into politics by joining Pakistan Peoples Party (PPP), expressing admiration for former prime minister Benazir Bhutto and pledging to serve the country and its people.

The 33-year-old’s entry into politics gets attention after a video surfaced online showing the actress announcing her decision to join PPP at an event.

She revealed that she had been devoted admirer of Mohtarma Benazir Bhutto since childhood. She said Benazir’s life and legacy had inspired countless women, adding that she believed every girl who had witnessed the former prime minister’s journey had been influenced by her.

 

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Calling her decision a ‘moment of pride and happiness’, Aiman said joining Pakistan Peoples Party was more than a political choice for her. She characterised it as a promise to her country and its people.

The actress also expressed her commitment to working for Pakistan through the party platform, emphasising that she intended to serve with sincerity, good intentions and wholehearted dedication.

Aiman’s political debut marks a new chapter in her public life, taking her beyond the entertainment industry and into the political arena. Her decision, coupled with her stated admiration for Benazir Bhutto, has brought renewed attention to the actress and her future ambitions in politics.

Here s to my forever : Aymen Saleem ties the knot

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LAHORE – The alleged sexual assault case involving Azeri woman Diana took another turn as Crime Control Department (CCD) took accused Ahmed Tanveer into custody at a Lahore court, while the woman’s latest video statement raised fresh questions about the case and the ongoing investigation.

During a hearing at the Sessions Court, the investigating officer informed the court that Tanveer was not joining the investigation. The court directed that he be questioned inside the courtroom and subsequently extended his interim bail until October 27. Tanveer’s lawyer, however, presented a different account, claiming that Diana had stated that Tanveer was not the person against whom she had levelled the allegation.

In a fresh video statement and documents reportedly sent through the embassy, Diana declared Ahmed Tanveer innocent, saying he had no involvement in the alleged sexual assault. “I gave my first statement under pressure,” she reportedly said, adding that she had wanted to appear before the court to record her statement but was told that her life was in danger. She further claimed that she was forcibly sent out of Pakistan.

Diana also said she had forgiven the other accused, identified as Mohsin and Uzair, and did not wish to pursue the matter any further. Her latest claims have added a new dimension to the case, which is already drawing attention over conflicting accounts and questions surrounding the investigation.

Tensions escalated at the court as police and the accused’s associates reportedly engaged in a heated exchange that turned into a physical scuffle. Police attempted to take the accused into custody, while violence was also reported between the two sides. Authorities subsequently detained some of the accused’s associates and transferred them to a police station.

The incident added to the drama surrounding the proceedings, with the case now involving competing claims by the defence, the woman’s latest statement and the investigating authorities.

Lahore DIG Investigation Zeeshan Raza said that efforts were being made to influence the investigation by having the alleged victim record a statement for social media. He maintained that Diana’s statement under Section 164 of the Code of Criminal Procedure had already been recorded before a court.

‘I was NOT Raped, and Ahmed Tanveer is Innocent”: Azerbaijani Woman Diana takes U-Turn in High-Profile Case

‘I was NOT Raped, and Ahmed Tanveer is Innocent”: Azerbaijani Woman Diana takes U-Turn in High-Profile Case

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RAWALPINDI: The National Assembly Standing Committee on Interior and Narcotics Control has summoned the Punjab inspector general of police (IGP), regional police officer (RPO), city police officer (CPO) Rawalpindi, SSP Investigation and additional inspector general of the Crime Control Department (CCD) to brief it on the investigation into the alleged brutal murder of Hina Javed.

The committee meeting is scheduled for Thursday, October 29, 2026, at 2pm in the committee room at Parliament House, Islamabad.

The police officials will brief committee members on the latest developments in the high-profile murder case.

The Punjab government has also formed a three-member high-powered committee to review the investigation into Hina Javed’s murder. Her husband and domestic servant have been placed on judicial remand at Adiala Jail in connection with the case.

The committee has already visited Rawalpindi, questioned the deceased woman’s husband and domestic servant at Adiala Jail, met her family and inspected the crime scene.

The panel comprises Additional IG CCD Sohail Chatta, DIG Lahore Shoaib Khurram Janbaz and SSP Investigation Rawalpindi Saifullah.

According to the postmortem and DNA report analysis, evidence collected during the investigation indicated that Hina Javed had been brutally tortured. The report noted blue marks on her hands and arms and a 27-centimetre-deep wound on her neck.

The report also stated that DNA collected from bloodstains, bedsheets allegedly used in the strangulation, a door lock and a door handle matched the DNA of the domestic servant.

Evidence collected for DNA testing included swabs from the deceased’s left-hand fingernails, samples taken from her body and pieces of cloth from a bedsheet bearing suspected bloodstains and spermatozoa. According to the report, the samples matched the domestic worker’s blood.

A reddish piece of carpet bearing suspected stains was also recovered from the southeastern bedroom of the apartment where the crime occurred. The report said the stains matched the blood and sperm attributed to Zeeshan Arshad.

The investigation has focused on the domestic servant’s alleged involvement, with the reported DNA findings forming part of the evidence under examination.

Meanwhile, Hina Javed’s family has again expressed mistrust in the Rawalpindi police investigation and the claims made by the CCD chief, demanding the formation of a judicial commission to probe the murder.

The family has alleged that police are protecting the main accused while holding the domestic servant responsible for the crime.

The initial postmortem examination and police report stated that Hina Javed’s body was found in the washroom of her apartment with signs of torture, including a strangulation mark around her neck, an injury below her right lip and bleeding from her nose.

Published in Dawn, October 24th, 2026

LAHORE: The police on Friday claimed to have arrested a man who had allegedly tortured and injured a young woman riding a scooty on busy Mozang Link Road in the city.

Identified as Ghulam Mustafa, the attacker was tracked down and arrested by the police with the help of data of dozens of the Punjab Safe Cities Authority (PSCA) cameras, besides using traditional investigation techniques. He was sent behind the bars after being nominated in a criminal case.

A CCTV footage of the incident, which took place late on Thursday, sparked widespread public outrage once footage was aired.

The footage showed the suspect overtook the scooty rider on the busy road, placed his bike in front of her two wheeler and subjected her to brutal torture in the presence of several passersby.

It was shocking to observe that none of the onlookers tried to intervene and rescue the woman. The man pulled her hair and slapped her repeatedly.

As per initial police reports, the woman suffered facial injuries, including nasal bone fracture, during the brutal attack.

A police official says the attacker also threw the victim’s bag on the ground that contained a laptop valuing around Rs90,000, resulting in severe damage to the laptop. The suspect later fled the scene in the presence of several onlookers, he adds.

A special police team, under the supervision of Civil Lines Superintendent of Police (SP) Maniza Karamat, tracked down and arrested the suspect using modern digital tracking technology.

The official says that a case has been lodged against the attacker on the complaint of the victim’s father.

Published in Dawn, October 24th, 2026

ISLAMABAD – Pakistani government increased the price of high-speed diesel by Rs1.91 per litre for October 24–26, 2026, while keeping petrol unchanged at Rs377.71 per litre.

The latest revision takes diesel from Rs391.75 to Rs393.66 per litre, marking its second consecutive increase. On Thursday, the government had raised diesel by Rs1.64 per litre and reduced petrol by Rs1.60 per litre.

In a press release issued on Friday, the Petroleum Division said the Oil and Gas Regulatory Authority had revised the ex-depot prices under the federal government’s petroleum pricing mechanism.

The announcement coincided with rising global crude prices as Houthi attacks in Saudi Arabia fuelled concerns about further disruption to energy supplies from the Middle East.

Brent crude futures gained $1.40, or 1.2%, to reach $114.57 a barrel by 1138 GMT on Friday. Earlier in the session, Brent touched $115, its highest level since May 4 and a peak of more than five months.

US West Texas Intermediate crude rose $1.48, or 1.5%, to $100.95 a barrel. Brent was on course for its third consecutive weekly increase, with a gain of 4.2%. WTI, despite advancing during Friday’s trading, was heading towards a weekly decline of approximately 0.5%.

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DUBAI – Pakistanis living in UAE will pay new passport fees ranging from AED 145 to AED 635 under fresh schedule covering 5-year e-passports and ten-year machine-readable passports.

Pakistani embassy has issued the revised schedule, with all payments to be collected in UAE dirhams. Charges vary according to the number of pages, passport validity and whether applicants choose normal or urgent processing.

5-Year E-Passport Fees

10-Year Machine-Readable Passport Fees

Applicants seeking a replacement after losing their passport for the first time will be charged twice the applicable fee. A second loss will attract a charge of four times the standard fee.

The report also said e-passport issuance has begun in Pakistan and at Pakistani diplomatic missions worldwide, with the electronic document set to be issued for new applications and renewals.

Equipped with advanced security features, e-passports are designed to improve identity verification and strengthen the protection of travel documents in line with international standards.

Existing machine-readable passports will remain valid until their stated expiry dates, meaning holders will not need to replace them immediately because of the transition.

While the reported fee schedule includes ten-year MRPs, the accompanying announcement states that future applications and renewals will receive e-passports. The supplied information does not clarify how the listed MRP fees will apply during this transition.

Pakistan e-Passport latest fee structure in July 2026

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