PESHAWAR –  Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif has announced key decisions to accelerate development and strengthen security in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, pledging Rs160 billion in federal funding for development projects and all necessary resources for the fight against terrorism.

The prime minister made the remarks during a meeting in Peshawar with a development council comprising representatives from the tribal districts and tribal elders. Field Marshal Syed Asim Munir also attended the meeting.

During the meeting, tribal elders thanked the prime minister for paying special attention to the situation in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa. They said the province’s people had been facing difficulties for the past 13 years and pledged their full cooperation in resolving public issues.

The elders also said people in the province had welcomed the recent developments and celebrated by distributing sweets.

Addressing the gathering, Prime Minister Shehbaz said tribal elders had always stood firmly with Pakistan and that tribal communities had made extraordinary sacrifices in the fight against terrorism.

He said the government highly valued their sacrifices, adding that despite suffering deep wounds and hardships, the tribal people’s commitment to Pakistan had never weakened.

The prime minister said that if peace had prevailed in the tribal districts, emergency measures might not have been necessary. He added that important decisions had been taken to accelerate development and make security arrangements in the province more effective.

Federal Government to Support Development and Food Security

Shehbaz Sharif said the federal government would provide Khyber Pakhtunkhwa with all the wheat it required and stressed that hoarding must not be allowed.

He said instructions had been issued to complete Safe City projects and accelerate development schemes where progress had been slow.

The prime minister reiterated that the federal government would provide all necessary resources to combat terrorism. He said steps would be taken to improve police training and operational capacity, while instructions had also been issued to strengthen the Counter Terrorism Department (CTD).

PM Calls for Improved Policing and Accountability

The prime minister said shortcomings had emerged in security operations and police performance in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa over the past 13 years.

He directed the relevant authorities to ensure prompt action in cases of theft and robbery and the immediate arrest of suspects.

Shehbaz Sharif also raised concerns over alleged corruption in the province, claiming that a Rs100 billion scandal had emerged in drinking water projects, while alleged fraud worth Rs37 billion had been reported in the Kohistan scandal.

He further alleged that widespread corruption had affected numerous development projects and that provincial resources had been misappropriated.

The prime minister said every rupee of public money would be spent on development and prosperity, adding that the government would work to prevent the alleged misuse of provincial resources.

Tribal Council to Be Empowered

Shehbaz Sharif said the 40 elected members of the tribal council carried a significant responsibility towards their communities.

He pledged that the council would be fully empowered and that the federal government would provide comprehensive support for development initiatives and access to justice in the tribal districts.

The prime minister reaffirmed the government’s commitment to improving security, accelerating development and addressing the longstanding challenges faced by the people of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa.

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ISLAMABAD – President Asif Ali Zardari departed for Germany on Thursday for a three-day visit aimed at strengthening bilateral relations, with Pakistan and Germany set to commemorate the 75th anniversary of the establishment of their diplomatic ties this year.

According to the Foreign Office (FO), the president’s visit, scheduled for October 22 to 24, is part of ongoing high-level exchanges between the two countries.

The President’s Office confirmed Zardari’s departure from Lahore in a post on social media on Thursday.

The Foreign Office said the visit carries particular significance as Pakistan and Germany mark 75 years of diplomatic relations, reflecting their shared commitment to further strengthening bilateral cooperation.

During the visit, President Zardari is scheduled to meet his German counterpart, Frank-Walter Steinmeier, along with senior German officials and business leaders. Discussions are expected to focus particularly on expanding economic and trade cooperation.

Sindh Chief Minister Murad Ali Shah is also expected to accompany the president. His possible participation was discussed during a meeting with German Consul General Thomas E. Schultze.

Recent Diplomatic Engagements

In September, Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Ishaq Dar met German Foreign Minister Johann Wadephul on the sidelines of the United Nations General Assembly.

According to Germany’s Foreign Office, the German side appreciated Pakistan’s mediation efforts in regional conflicts, particularly concerning the Strait of Hormuz and Bab al-Mandab.

The two sides also agreed to support renewed peace negotiations on Ukraine, according to the German Foreign Office.

President Zardari’s visit is expected to provide an opportunity for both countries to review their longstanding partnership and explore avenues for enhanced cooperation in trade, investment and other areas of mutual interest.

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ISLAMABAD – The federal government has decided to seek details of foreign citizenship held by government employees and directed them to submit declarations within 90 days.

The government has also issued a prescribed pro forma regarding foreign citizenship, instructing ministries and divisions to collect and submit details about their subordinate officers.

In addition to employees’ own citizenship status, the government has sought information about the foreign citizenship held by their dependants and details of their dependants’ travel documents.

Government employees will also be required to disclose details of marriages to foreign nationals as part of the declaration process.

 

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ISLAMABAD – The World Bank has released its Pakistan Development Update 2026 economic report, outlining the country’s economic performance, inflation trends and recent changes in fuel and transport costs.

According to the report, Pakistan’s economic growth rate stood at 3.7 per cent in 2026. During the fiscal year 2025-26, average core inflation in urban areas was recorded at 7.4 per cent, while the overall fiscal deficit declined to 2.6 per cent of gross domestic product (GDP).

The report stated that petrol prices increased by approximately 36 per cent between February and June 2026. High-speed diesel prices rose by 31 per cent, while liquefied petroleum gas (LPG) prices recorded an increase of around 46 per cent during the same period.

Transport fares also increased by approximately 30 per cent, according to the report.

The World Bank further noted that international credit rating agencies S&P Global Ratings and Moody’s had upgraded Pakistan’s credit ratings, reflecting improvements in the country’s credit assessment.

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PESHAWAR – A meeting chaired by Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif has agreed on the complete elimination of terrorism, with the premier saying the federal government cannot remain a silent spectator while Khyber Pakhtunkhwa continues to suffer from violence.

“We cannot leave Khyber Pakhtunkhwa burning and remain silent spectators,” the prime minister said, adding that emergency measures and governor’s rule had to be imposed in the province under compelling circumstances.

The Federal Apex Committee of the National Action Plan met at Governor House in Peshawar under the chairmanship of Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif. Field Marshal Asim Munir, Finance Minister Muhammad Aurangzeb, Interior Minister Mohsin Naqvi, Azam Nazeer Tarar, Attaullah Tarar, Amir Muqam, Rana Sanaullah, Khyber Pakhtunkhwa Governor Faisal Karim Kundi, the chief secretary, inspector general of police and Peshawar corps commander also attended the meeting.

According to sources, the meeting reviewed the province’s political situation and recent developments, with participants agreeing on the need to eradicate terrorism completely.

Addressing the participants, the prime minister vowed that the government would not rest until the last terrorist was eliminated. He said the sacrifices made by the country’s soldiers and officers would not go in vain.

Shehbaz Sharif assured the participants that the federal government would provide whatever support was required for the provincial police, Safe City projects and the Counter Terrorism Department (CTD).

PM Says KP Cannot Be Left to Suffer

The prime minister described Khyber Pakhtunkhwa as a beautiful province inhabited by courageous and resilient people, saying the province had been severely affected by circumstances that had developed over the past several years.

He said Pakistan’s armed forces and security institutions had made immense sacrifices to eliminate terrorism and that complete peace had been restored in the province by 2018.

However, he alleged that terrorists were brought back during the Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) government after peace had been established, undermining the sacrifices made by security personnel and the public.

He said the people of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa had paid the price for what he described as a failure to respect those sacrifices. He further alleged that education, healthcare, security and other public welfare matters had been neglected during the PTI government, contributing to a resurgence in terrorism in recent years.

PM Criticises Previous Provincial Government

Shehbaz Sharif said 5,000 police vacancies had not been filled during the previous provincial government’s tenure and that the Safe City project in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa remained incomplete.

He also criticised what he described as a lack of attention to counterterrorism institutions, police training and modern equipment for security forces.

According to the prime minister, Khyber Pakhtunkhwa had received Rs800 billion under the National Finance Commission (NFC) Award for counterterrorism-related purposes.

He expressed concern that terrorism had resurged despite the funding, saying security forces had not been adequately equipped with modern weapons, training and other necessary resources.

The prime minister said the federal government had repeatedly assured PTI chief ministers that it was prepared to support the province in combating terrorism.

PM Says Tough Decisions Followed Consultations

The prime minister said the government had worked tirelessly over the past two and a half years to revive the national economy, adding that sustained efforts by the political and military leadership had helped stabilise the economy.

He questioned how long the government could continue to witness bloodshed in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa without taking action.

According to Shehbaz Sharif, a political committee had been formed and its members worked hard during 48 hours of negotiations. He said he had consulted the president twice over the deteriorating situation in the province, adding that these circumstances had led to difficult decisions.

The prime minister said an advisory council had also been established, comprising experts from various fields and individuals he described as capable and honest.

He said the people of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa had been waiting for 13 years for their problems to be resolved and stressed that the recent changes must produce positive results.

Shehbaz Sharif also levelled corruption allegations against the PTI-led provincial administration, claiming that corruption cases involving public projects had come to light.

He alleged that Rs100 billion had been embezzled in a clean drinking water project and that corruption worth Rs37 billion had been uncovered in the Kohistan mega scandal. He also claimed that contracts under the placer gold project had been awarded to favoured individuals.

These allegations were presented by the prime minister during his address.

PM Says Decisions Are Within Constitutional and Legal Authority

Shehbaz Sharif maintained that the steps taken in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa were authorised by the Constitution and the law.

He thanked the coalition partners for their support regarding the decisions concerning the province and expressed particular gratitude to President Asif Ali Zardari and former prime minister Nawaz Sharif.

The prime minister pledged to restore peace, prosperity and development in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, saying he would work with the support of Field Marshal Asim Munir to bring stability and happiness back to the province.

He also promised that Khyber Pakhtunkhwa would receive development opportunities comparable to those available in other provinces.

Governor KP Calls for Joint Efforts Against Terrorism

Addressing the meeting, Khyber Pakhtunkhwa Governor Faisal Karim Kundi said establishing peace in the province was a shared priority.

He said the people of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa wanted peace and development, emphasising that the federal government had a crucial role in achieving stability.

The governor said progress towards peace and development could not be halted if all institutions worked together with a common objective.

He added that eliminating terrorists and their facilitators from the province remained a key priority.

Faisal Karim Kundi said the government wanted to create an environment in which every citizen felt safe and had the opportunity to participate in the development process.

He stressed that cooperation between the federal and provincial governments was essential to ensuring public safety and prosperity, adding that the ultimate goal was to transform Khyber Pakhtunkhwa into a model province of peace, stability, development and prosperity.

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LAHORE – The National Cyber Crime Investigation Agency (NCCIA) Lahore has arrested a well-known TikToker for allegedly harassing a female journalist on social media.

According to reports, the arrested TikToker has been identified as Muhammad Shahzaib, also known as Shahzaib Sialkoti, a resident of Sialkot. A case was registered against him following a complaint by the female journalist. The suspect had allegedly uploaded an obscene, insulting and derogatory video targeting the journalist on Facebook.

Reports said that, with the approval of the Additional Director of NCCIA Lahore, a raid was conducted at City Housing Society in Sialkot following a tip-off from an informant. The TikToker was arrested during the operation, and two mobile phones were recovered from his possession.

During an on-the-spot technical examination, investigators reportedly found that the suspect’s Facebook account, two Instagram accounts and TikTok account were active on the recovered phones.

According to reports, the controversial video was found in the Downloads folder of an iPhone. The investigation further revealed that the suspect’s Facebook and TikTok accounts were monetised and linked to a private bank account. He allegedly earned money by uploading roast videos and controversial content on social media.

Reports added that during interrogation, the TikToker admitted to uploading the video on September 10, 2026, and later deleting it because of the inappropriate language used in it.

The timely action by NCCIA Lahore highlights the agency’s stated commitment to investigating cyber harassment and defamation cases.

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RAWALPINDI –  England set Sri Lanka a mammoth target of 430 runs in the third match of the tri-nation series being played at Rawalpindi Cricket Stadium.

After winning the toss, Sri Lanka elected to field first. However, England capitalised on the opportunity, scoring 429 for four in their allotted 50 overs.

England captain Harry Brook produced a sensational innings, scoring 202 off 116 balls to register a remarkable double century. Joe Root contributed 69 runs, Tom Banton scored 50, and Ben Duckett added 29, while Will Jacks remained unbeaten on 66.

For Sri Lanka, Dunith Wellalage claimed two wickets, while Asitha Fernando and Janith Liyanage took one wicket each.

Sri Lanka made one change to their playing XI, bringing in Dunith Wellalage in place of Sanchitha Colombage.

Meanwhile, Pakistan remain unbeaten in the tri-nation series, having defeated Sri Lanka by 37 runs in the opening match and England by 87 runs in the second.

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RAWALPINDI – England captain Harry Brook produced a sensational batting performance at Rawalpindi Cricket Stadium on Thursday, smashing a fastest double century against Sri Lanka in the Pakistan ODI Tri-Nation Series.

Brook blasted an extraordinary 202 runs off just 116 balls, becoming the first England batter to score a double century in men’s One-Day International cricket.

Harry Brook smashed the fastest double-century in ODI history, off 114 balls, breaking Shubman Gill’s record of 117 balls

The England skipper dominated the Sri Lankan bowling attack with an outstanding display of power hitting and innovative stroke play. His remarkable knock included 16 fours and 10 sixes, leaving the opposition struggling to contain the aggressive captain.

Brook’s incredible innings helped England post a mammoth total of 429 for four, putting Sri Lanka under enormous pressure in the high-profile tri-series encounter.

Joe Root also contributed a valuable 69 runs, while Tom Banton scored 50 and Will Jacks provided a late explosive contribution with 66 off just 24 balls.

The Rawalpindi crowd witnessed a memorable display of modern ODI batting as Brook demonstrated his leadership, confidence and exceptional ability to dominate world-class bowling.

Brook’s historic double century marked a major milestone in English cricket and strengthened his reputation as one of the most dangerous batters in international cricket.

His extraordinary performance will be remembered as one of the standout moments of the Pakistan ODI Tri-Nation Series.

 

 

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ISLAMABAD – The federal government has announced plans to move Islamabad’s entire electricity transmission system underground.

Federal Interior Minister Mohsin Naqvi visited the Malpur area of Islamabad to review encroachments. The Chairman of the Capital Development Authority (CDA) and the Deputy Commissioner of Islamabad briefed him on the situation.

Naqvi directed the Islamabad administration to remove illegal occupation of government land in Bhara Kahu. He said that just as the person occupying government land is responsible, the relevant CDA official is equally accountable for allowing the encroachment.

The interior minister said that 150 housing societies in Islamabad are illegal, adding that 108 kanals of land in Malpur have been illegally occupied. He noted that people have been occupying government land for 30 years or more.

Naqvi also ordered the recovery of illegally occupied land in Bhara Kahu. He said that three museums, including an Army Museum, would be established on the 108 kanals of government land once it had been reclaimed.

He further announced plans to redevelop the older sectors of Islamabad, including G-6, G-7, G-9 and G-10.

The interior minister said that there would be no electricity poles left standing in Islamabad within the next two years. He added that the government would work with the Islamabad Electric Supply Company (IESCO) to remove electricity poles and shift the power transmission infrastructure underground.

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KARACHI – Mashreq, one of the Middle East and North Africa (MENA) region’s leading financial institutions, has officially launched NEO BIZ in Pakistan, a dedicated digital banking proposition designed to address the evolving needs of small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs), sole proprietors and self-employed professionals, while helping unlock the country’s business potential.

Pakistan is home to approximately 7.14 million micro, small and medium-sized enterprises (MSMEs), contributing nearly 40% to GDP, 30% to exports and employing more than 80% of the non-agricultural workforce. Despite their significant contribution, access to formal financing remains limited. As of December 2025, outstanding SME financing stood at approximately PKR 882 billion. While access to credit has expanded, considerable opportunities remain to strengthen financial inclusion and provide businesses with accessible, digitally enabled financial services.

Positioned at the intersection of economic opportunity and digital transformation, NEO BIZ reflects Mashreq’s broader vision of enabling business growth through innovation and cross-market collaboration. Drawing on Mashreq’s international banking expertise, the proposition aims to simplify financial management for Pakistani businesses while supporting greater participation in the formal digital economy.

Fernando Morillo, Group Head of Retail Banking, Mashreq, added: “Across our international markets, we have seen how digital-first banking models can transform the way businesses operate, improving efficiency, transparency and access to financial services. NEO BIZ builds on this global experience, combining strong commercial capabilities with a scalable platform designed to meet the needs of SMEs. Pakistan represents a high-potential market and NEO BIZ is an important step in extending our global business banking proposition into a rapidly evolving digital economy.”

Designed as a comprehensive solution, NEO BIZ brings together digital business banking, payments, collections and an expanding range of value-added services within an integrated ecosystem. The proposition enables eligible businesses to open and manage accounts digitally, reducing reliance on branch visits and simplifying routine financial transactions. Its broader roadmap encompasses business debit and virtual cards, payroll solutions, invoice-based payments, transaction analytics and bookkeeping capabilities, supporting businesses as their operational and financial needs evolve.

Commenting on the local opportunity, Muhammad Hamayun Sajjad, CEO, Mashreq Bank Pakistan, said: “Pakistan’s SME sector is both dynamic and under-served, with significant gaps in access, awareness and digital capability. With NEO BIZ, we are introducing a platform that is built specifically for the realities of this market, one that simplifies banking, reduces dependency on physical channels and supports businesses as they grow. This launch is a natural extension of our commitment to Pakistan and aligns with our broader vision of enabling financial inclusion and supporting the country’s economic transformation through digital innovation.”

Beyond core banking, NEO BIZ is designed to progressively evolve into a connected business ecosystem through Banking-as-a-Service (BaaS) capabilities and strategic partnerships, with plans to integrate bookkeeping, supply chain solutions, tax facilitation, analytics, invoicing and cash flow-based financing. Through a phased approach, Mashreq aims to simplify operational complexities, enhance business efficiency and deliver solutions that respond to the evolving needs of entrepreneurs at different stages of growth.

Providing further detail on the proposition, Syed Jaffar Abbas Shirazi, Head of NEO BIZ, Mashreq Bank Pakistan, said: “NEO BIZ has been designed with a clear understanding of the challenges SMEs face today, from fragmented financial tools and limited product visibility to barriers in accessing financing. Our approach is to bring everything into a single, integrated platform that allows businesses to manage their financial operations seamlessly. From instant account opening and payments to advanced tools such as analytics, invoicing and bookkeeping, NEO BIZ is built to move beyond traditional banking and become a true business enabler.”

NEO BIZ will be distributed through a combination of digital channels, strategic partnerships and phygital touchpoints, ensuring accessibility across a diverse SME base and enabling Mashreq to scale its reach across Pakistan’s business ecosystem.

With this launch, Mashreq aims to accelerate the adoption of digital financial services among SMEs, strengthen digital payment acceptance, support entrepreneurs and self-employed professionals, and contribute to Pakistan’s transition toward a more inclusive, transparent and digitally connected economy.

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KARACHI – Karachi continued to experience intense heat on Wednesday as northeasterly and northwesterly winds prevailed across the city. Despite low humidity levels, the maximum temperature reached 38.5 degrees Celsius, according to the Pakistan Meteorological Department (PMD).

The Met Office said hot and dry weather conditions persisted in the city, with strong sunshine and weak sea breezes contributing to the heat, particularly during the afternoon. Northeasterly and northwesterly winds blew for most of the day.

According to the department, Karachi’s maximum temperature remained at 38.5°C for the second consecutive day, while the relative humidity level stood at 17 per cent.

Hot and Dry Weather Expected to Continue

The PMD’s Early Warning Centre has forecast that hot and dry conditions will persist in Karachi over the next three days.

Winds are expected to blow from the northeast and northwest, alongside sea breezes. However, the department said the low humidity during daytime hours was unlikely to create heatwave-like conditions.

Temperatures Soar in Rural Sindh

Several districts in rural Sindh also experienced intense heat on Wednesday.

The maximum temperature reached 41°C in Mithi, while Shaheed Benazirabad recorded 40°C, according to the weather report.

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PESHAWAR – An audit report has uncovered alleged corruption and financial irregularities worth billions of rupees in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa’s minerals sector during the Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) government.

According to the report, the provincial exchequer suffered losses exceeding Rs16.94 billion in a single year during 2022 and 2023.

The report states that more than Rs8 billion was lost through illegal mining, while outstanding dues amounting to Rs4.31 billion remained unrecovered from defaulting contractors.

It further reveals that illegal mining continued across the province despite the presence of checkpoints, inspectors and other relevant staff from the Mines and Minerals Department, resulting in additional losses of Rs3.08 billion. The unauthorised extraction of gravel and sand in the name of constructing highways and small dams was also identified as a source of losses amounting to Rs3.07 billion.

According to the audit findings, excise duty worth Rs547.2 million imposed on minerals was not collected. The report also pointed to the waiver of outstanding dues exceeding Rs810 million relating to coal, bauxite, limestone and soapstone mines.

The audit further revealed that government land belonging to the Mines and Minerals Department in Peshawar was leased at just Rs200 per acre, against the prescribed rate of Rs10,000 per acre. This resulted in an estimated loss of Rs140 million to the public exchequer.

Similarly, the failure to recover outstanding dues related to small dams in Kohat, Nowshera, Swabi, Haripur and other districts caused losses exceeding Rs530 million. The report also identified the non-recovery of Rs63.6 million in royalty payments in Mardan.

The Auditor General has recommended inquiries against those responsible to establish accountability for the financial irregularities and determine the extent of losses inflicted on the provincial exchequer.

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KARACHI – The Sindh government has decided to establish a joint investigation team (JIT) in the Mir Raza case in light of the recommendations made by a judicial commission. The notification for the formation of the team is expected to be issued within 24 hours.

Sindh Chief Minister Syed Murad Ali Shah held a meeting with members of the cabinet’s subcommittee formed to review the case.

The subcommittee comprises provincial ministers Syed Nasir Hussain Shah, Zia-ul-Hassan Lanjar and Saeed Ghani, along with Sindh Advocate General Jawad Dero.

During the meeting, the committee members briefed the chief minister on their detailed review of the judicial commission’s recommendations, including progress made during the first review meeting on the report.

The briefing revealed that preliminary recommendations had been formulated during the review meeting and subsequently presented to the chief minister for consideration.

In addition to establishing a JIT, the provincial government has decided to constitute a separate inquiry team to identify negligence and lapses by the teams that initially investigated the case.

Chief Minister Murad Ali Shah directed the committee to ensure the full implementation of all its recommendations. He reiterated that the provincial government would act on the recommendations put forward by the judicial commission.

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ISLAMABAD – The government has increased profit rates on several national savings schemes, including those designed for pensioners, senior citizens and families of martyrs. The revised rates came into effect on October 21.

According to the updated schedule issued by the Central Directorate of National Savings (CDNS), the profit rate on Behbood Savings Certificates, Pensioners’ Benefit Accounts and Shuhada Family Welfare Accounts has been raised to 12.96 per cent from 12.72 per cent.

Following the revision, investors with Rs100,000 deposited in these schemes will receive a monthly profit of Rs1,080, up from the previous Rs1,060.

The profit rate on Regular Income Certificates has also been increased from 11.76 per cent to 12.12 per cent. The revised rate will raise the monthly return on an investment of Rs100,000 to Rs1,010 from Rs980.

Meanwhile, the return on Special Savings Certificates has been revised upwards to 12 per cent from 11.6 per cent for the first five profit payments. Investors holding certificates worth Rs100,000 will receive Rs6,000 every six months. The sixth and final payment will amount to Rs6,400, calculated at a rate of 12.8 per cent.

Returns on Defence Savings Certificates Increased

The government has also raised cumulative returns on Defence Savings Certificates across various investment periods.

Under the revised schedule, the cumulative return on six-year certificates has increased to 88 per cent from 86 per cent, while the return on seven-year certificates has risen to 113 per cent from 109 per cent.

For eight-year certificates, the cumulative return has been raised to 142 per cent from 136 per cent. The return on nine-year certificates has increased to 176 per cent from 168 per cent, while the 10-year return has climbed to 215 per cent from 205 per cent.

Short-Term and Islamic Savings Schemes

Profit rates on Short Term Savings Certificates have also been revised. The rate for three-month certificates has increased from 10.80 per cent to 11.12 per cent, while rates for longer investment periods have been raised to as high as 11.72 per cent.

The revised schedule also includes higher returns on Sharia-compliant savings products. Profit rates on Sarwa Islamic Term Accounts now range between 11.84 per cent and 12.12 per cent, depending on the investment period.

The rate on Sarwa Islamic Savings Accounts has also been increased to 11.84 per cent from 11.33 per cent.

However, the annual profit rate on ordinary Savings Accounts remains unchanged at 10 per cent.

Tax and Zakat Deductions

According to the official schedule, profits earned through national savings schemes are subject to withholding tax at 15 per cent for tax filers and 30 per cent for non-filers.

Zakat deductions will also apply where required under the relevant rules.

The revised rates are expected to increase returns for investors in several government-backed savings products, particularly pensioners and other beneficiaries who rely on regular income from their investments.

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LAHORE – Pakistanis are being forced to pay exorbitant prices for liquefied petroleum gas (LPG), with consumers allegedly paying more than Rs1.4 billion above the government-notified rate in just five days, despite the presence of the Oil and Gas Regulatory Authority (OGRA) and other regulatory bodies.

According to Irfan Khokhar, chairman of the LPG Distributors Association, Pakistan’s daily LPG consumption has risen from between 60,000 and 65,000 kilogrammes to around 70,000 kilogrammes due to changing weather conditions.

He said OGRA had fixed the LPG price at Rs280 per kilogramme, but the commodity was being sold at rates ranging from Rs600 to more than Rs625 per kilogramme.

As a result, consumers are paying approximately Rs320 extra per kilogramme. Based on the prevailing consumption levels and price difference, the public has paid more than Rs1.4 billion in excess charges over the past five days, Khokhar said, alleging that the additional money had gone into the pockets of the LPG mafia.

Questions Raised Over OGRA’s Enforcement

Despite the reported overcharging, LPG sellers have allegedly continued to set prices at their discretion for five consecutive days, while OGRA has yet to take action against any LPG plant operators, according to the report.

Sources within OGRA said meetings had been held over the past two days to determine which authority was responsible for taking action against those violating the notified prices.

The sources said OGRA was authorised to act against LPG marketing companies and plant operators. However, no action had reportedly been taken against any plant so far.

Meanwhile, the Punjab Enforcement and Regulatory Authority (PERA) has taken action against more than 10 shopkeepers in Lahore and other parts of Punjab.

Shopkeepers have questioned why they are being penalised when they themselves are purchasing LPG at inflated rates.

“We are being supplied LPG by the mafia at Rs550 per kilogramme. How can we sell it for Rs280?” some traders said, adding that enforcement teams were confiscating their gas-filling equipment and imposing additional fines.

The traders said they were facing mounting difficulties and might be forced to shut down their businesses if the situation continued.

Importers Blame Border Closure and Transportation Costs

Sheikh Mukarram, president of the LPG Importers Association, attributed the price surge to the closure of the Taftan border, which he said had disrupted supplies and created a shortage in the market.

He also criticised OGRA’s pricing notification, arguing that the transportation charges used in the calculation were outdated and based on rates from 2010.

According to Mukarram, transporting an LPG tanker costs between Rs50,000 and Rs60,000, but OGRA has failed to revise the relevant transportation rates.

He said the association had repeatedly raised the issue with OGRA’s chairman and other senior officials, but no satisfactory response had been received.

Mukarram warned that businesses could face serious difficulties if the issue remained unresolved, adding that shutting down operations could push the situation further out of control.

Industry Calls for Government Intervention

Khokhar said approximately 70 per cent of Pakistan’s LPG requirements were met through imports, while the remaining 30 per cent came from domestic production.

He urged the government to intervene immediately and take control of the situation to ensure that LPG was available to consumers at affordable prices.

The industry representatives called for effective price enforcement, a review of transportation costs and measures to address supply shortages to protect consumers from further price increases.

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ISLAMABAD – Federal Interior Minister Mohsin Naqvi, accompanied by Minister of State for Interior Talal Chaudhry, visited the residence of Laiba and met her father, Rana Ejaz.

During the visit, Naqvi handed over money recovered from the alleged fraudster to Laiba’s father. The Inspector General (IG) of Islamabad Police was also present.

According to sources, the interior minister returned more than Rs5 million to Rana Ejaz and assured him that efforts would continue to recover the remaining amount allegedly taken from Laiba.

Meanwhile, Islamabad Inspector General of Police Sohail Chaudhry also visited the family of Laiba Ejaz, a gold-medal-winning student whose death by suicide has drawn attention to the alleged fraud case. The IG offered his condolences to the bereaved family.

Laiba’s Father Thanks Interior Minister, Public for Support

Speaking to the media after the meeting, Rana Ejaz thanked the interior minister and others who had supported his family.

He said he would never forget the tragedy that had befallen them, but the support shown by the Pakistani public had brought him some comfort.

Ejaz said his daughter had aspired to travel abroad and wanted to serve the country. He added that Islamabad Police had consistently provided the family with encouragement and support.

He further said the family had been informed that additional cases against the suspect had emerged. According to Ejaz, the suspect had also taken money from girls in Mansehra.

Laiba’s father confirmed that the money belonging to him had been returned.

Suspect Allegedly Defrauded 21 Others

The deceased suspect, identified as Nauman, allegedly defrauded 21 people in addition to Laiba, sources said.

During the investigation, police reportedly recovered 21 fake appointment letters from the suspect. The documents had allegedly been issued to different individuals under the pretext of securing jobs in the Ministry of Defence.

According to sources, Nauman collected money from the individuals in exchange for the fraudulent appointment letters. He allegedly provided similar fake documents to four of his cousins as well.

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BAHAWALPUR – A man accused of running over and killing a 14-year-old boy in Multan was killed during an alleged encounter with the Crime Control Department (CCD) in Bahawalpur early Wednesday, according to police.

The suspect, identified as Tauqeer, had reportedly escaped from police custody while on physical remand, a CCD spokesperson said.

On Tuesday, a judicial magistrate in Multan had ordered that Tauqeer remain in police custody for three days to assist with the investigation. Police had initially sought a 14-day remand. The suspect was arrested on Monday and appeared before Judicial Magistrate Saadia Aslam the following day.

The case relates to the death of a teenage boy who allegedly worked for the suspect and was learning electrical work. He was reportedly struck by a car in a private housing society in Multan.

According to the CCD spokesperson, department personnel tried to stop two men travelling on a motorcycle along Bahawalpur’s Northern Bypass. An exchange of gunfire followed, resulting in Tauqeer’s death, the spokesperson said.

Meanwhile, Multan City Police Officer (CPO) Akhtar Farooq said on Tuesday that police teams were conducting raids to apprehend the second suspect allegedly involved in the case.

Expressing grief over the incident, Farooq said the community was deeply distressed by the boy’s death. He also described the treatment allegedly inflicted on the orphaned child as an act of extreme cruelty.

Closed-circuit television (CCTV) footage of the incident appears to show the boy running along a road after noticing a car. The vehicle swerves towards him and follows him before striking him. After being hit, the boy falls and crashes into the gate of a nearby house, suffering fatal injuries.

A police case was registered on behalf of the state at the Defence Housing Authority (DHA) police station in Multan.

The first information report (FIR) names two suspects and includes charges under Sections 302 and 34 of the Pakistan Penal Code, relating to intentional murder and acts carried out by multiple individuals with a shared intention, respectively.

According to the FIR, the teenager was employed by the suspects and was receiving training to become an electrician. His cousin told police that the boy had allegedly been subjected to violence and threats by the men.

The FIR further states that the teenager was attempting to flee when the suspects allegedly pursued him in a car and struck him. Police subsequently arrested one suspect, while the other managed to escape. The vehicle allegedly used in the incident was also taken into police custody, according to the report.

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ISLAMABAD – Pakistan, Türkiye, Qatar and Indonesia have signed an agreement to strengthen cooperation in the defence industry.

According to the Turkish Ministry of National Defence, the Badr Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) was signed during Turkish National Defence Minister Yaşar Güler’s visit to Qatar. The agreement aims to promote defence and security cooperation among the four countries.

Millî Savunma Bakanı Yaşar Güler’in Katar ziyareti sırasında Türkiye, Katar, Pakistan ve Endonezya arasında Bedir Mutabakat Zaptı imzalandı.

Mutabakat Zaptı’nı Millî Savunma Bakanı Yaşar Güler, Katar Başbakan Yardımcısı ve Savunma İşlerinden Sorumlu Devlet Bakanı Şeyh Saud bin Abdulrahman bin Hasan Al Sani, Endonezya Savunma Bakanı Yardımcısı Yusuf Jauharı ve Pakistan Savunma Bakanı Khawaja Muhammed Asıf tarafından imzalandı.

İmza töreninde Savunma Sanayii Başkanı Haluk Görgün de yer aldı.

#MillîSavunmaBakanlığı
#YaşarGüler

— T.C. Millî Savunma Bakanlığı (@tcsavunma) October 21, 2026

The MoU was signed by Pakistan’s Defence Minister Khawaja Asif, Türkiye’s National Defence Minister Yaşar Güler, Qatar’s Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of State for Defence Affairs Sheikh Saud bin Abdulrahman bin Hassan Al Thani, and Indonesia’s Deputy Defence Minister Yusuf Juhari.

According to Türkiye’s Defence Industry Agency, the new memorandum will help advance ongoing defence projects among the four countries.

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ISLAMABAD / SUWON, South Korea – Jazz, Pakistan’s leading connectivity provider from JazzWorld, and Samsung Electronics have signed a strategic partnership at Samsung’s global headquarters in Suwon, South Korea, to make AI-enabled smartphones more accessible across Pakistan.

The collaboration will focus on device affordability, access to Galaxy AI and greater convenience in digital payments through opportunities around Samsung Wallet, supporting the broader ambition of digital and financial inclusion.

The partnership brings together Jazz’s connectivity, retail presence and customer reach with Samsung’s global leadership in mobile innovation, Galaxy devices and AI capabilities. Through instalment plans and trade-in programs, the collaboration aims to reduce the upfront cost of upgrading to compatible Galaxy AI and 5G-enabled smartphones, helping more people use advanced technology in their everyday lives.

Commenting on the partnership, Kazim Mujtaba, President, Jazz GSM, said: “Making AI accessible to more Pakistanis starts with the smartphone in their hands. Affordability, connectivity and ease of use all matter. Through our partnership with Samsung, we want to help more people own capable devices and use AI to learn, work and create. Alongside this, opportunities around Samsung Wallet can bring greater convenience to everyday payments, supporting our ambition to broaden participation in the digital economy.”

Ryan Na, Managing Director, Samsung Electronics Pakistan, commented: “At Samsung, our ambition is to bring the power of Galaxy innovation and AI to more consumers, helping them create, connect and achieve more in their everyday lives. Our strategic partnership with Jazz represents an important opportunity to combine Samsung’s advanced mobile technology with Jazz’s connectivity, retail and customer reach. By working together on premium device experiences, consumer engagement and more flexible ownership solutions, we aim to make the Galaxy experience more attainable while strengthening the adoption of next-generation mobile technology in Pakistan.”

To support adoption, selected Jazz outlets will give consumers opportunities to experience Samsung’s latest innovation firsthand. Customers can try Galaxy AI features and receive guidance on device financing and connectivity options. After-sales support will further strengthen the ownership experience.

The partnership will also promote 5G-ready devices, supporting experiences across productivity, communication, content creation and entertainment. For corporate and enterprise customers, Jazz and Samsung will work towards bundled device and connectivity offerings to help businesses equip their teams.

Together, Jazz and Samsung aim to make advanced smartphones more attainable and useful, expand access to AI, and support greater participation in Pakistan’s digital economy.

Samsung Electronics Marks 20 Consecutive Years as the World’s No.1 TV Brand

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KARACHI – A major fraud involving the use of illegally issued duplicate SIM cards to steal millions of rupees from bank accounts has come to light in Pakistan, with two members of the National Assembly (MNAs) and a Karachi-based businessman among the reported victims.

According to a report, the fraudsters allegedly obtained duplicate SIM cards without the account holders’ authorisation and used them to gain access to their banking services, change transaction limits and transfer funds into accounts opened in other people’s names.

MNA Loses Rs1.5 Million After Duplicate SIM Issued

The report stated that on January 12, Muttahida Qaumi Movement (MQM) MNA Farhan Chishti arrived at Islamabad Airport in the afternoon and discovered that his mobile SIM had stopped working. He was unable to make calls or receive messages.

When he visited his mobile operator’s service centre, he learned that a duplicate SIM had been issued against his number without his knowledge or consent, rendering his original SIM inactive. Staff informed him that the replacement SIM had been issued from Malir, Karachi.

Meanwhile, the person using the duplicate SIM had allegedly registered an online banking facility in Chishti’s name, even though the lawmaker had never used electronic banking services.

The fraudster reportedly increased the withdrawal limit on Chishti’s account, set the password to “Sain Sarkar” and transferred Rs1.5 million from his account to one belonging to a woman identified as Sakina Bibi.

According to the report, Bibi was also a victim of the fraud, as a bank account had allegedly been opened in her name without her knowledge. Funds were also transferred to other accounts registered in women’s names in southern Punjab and Sindh.

Biometric Verification Process Under Scrutiny

Chishti lodged a complaint with the National Cyber Crime Investigation Agency (NCCIA), prompting investigators to question the owner of a shop in the Khokhrapar area of Malir from where the duplicate SIM had reportedly been issued.

The shop owner told investigators that a man had visited the outlet and claimed that his mother needed a duplicate SIM but was too weak to get out of a vehicle. The man allegedly requested that the shopkeeper bring the biometric verification device to the vehicle so his mother’s thumb impression could be recorded.

However, it remains unclear how Chishti’s own thumb impression was obtained or used in the process. The individual allegedly using the duplicate SIM was reportedly a resident of Nawabshah.

Second MNA and Karachi Businessman Also Targeted

The report identified another lawmaker, MNA Shehryar Mahar, as a victim of a similar fraud, in which he reportedly lost Rs2 million.

Karachi businessman Sunny Kumar was also targeted. On September 29, 2025, a duplicate SIM registered in his name was issued from a retail outlet in Dhabeji, Thatta.

Interestingly, Kumar and Chishti were customers of the same telecommunications company.

Following the issuance of the duplicate SIM, Rs8.5 million was allegedly withdrawn from Kumar’s bank account.

Bank Employee Suspected of Sharing Customer Information

Investigators looking into Kumar’s case reportedly discovered evidence suggesting that a bank employee may have been involved in the fraud.

According to the report, a branch service officer employed at a bank branch in Mardan had accessed Kumar’s account details before the duplicate SIM was issued. The officer had also reportedly accessed information relating to around 30 other accounts.

Call records allegedly showed that the officer had attempted to obtain customer data from an employee of another bank. He also reportedly offered money to an employee of the National Database and Registration Authority (NADRA) in exchange for information, but the employee refused to provide it.

A source familiar with the investigations told the publication that similar methods had been used in the other two cases, with the possible involvement of bank employees also coming under suspicion.

However, investigations into those cases reportedly failed to make significant progress because the complainants were primarily interested in recovering their stolen money.

PTA Fines Telecom Company Rs77.8 Million

The Pakistan Telecommunication Authority (PTA) imposed a fine of Rs77.8 million on the telecommunications company over irregularities in the SIM issuance process.

According to the report, the action taken against the banks was limited to orders directing them to reimburse the affected customers.

The report also noted that the problem was not confined to these three cases, as similar incidents had been reported in other provinces of Pakistan.

Stolen Biometric Data Raises Wider Security Concerns

Investigators suspect that criminal networks may be obtaining biometric information, including fingerprints, on a wider scale through stolen data or by collecting fingerprints at locations where verification procedures are not strictly enforced for routine services.

The fingerprints are allegedly stored using software and subsequently misused to bypass biometric verification systems.

The cases have raised concerns about weaknesses in SIM registration procedures, banking security, the protection of customer information and the possible misuse of biometric data.

The incidents also highlight the need for stronger verification mechanisms and accountability across telecommunications companies, banks and other institutions that handle sensitive personal information.

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