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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RAWALPINDI – Pakistan and Sri Lanka have been penalised for maintaining slow over-rates during their opening match of the ODI tri-series at Rawalpindi Cricket Stadium on Sunday, October 18.

Pakistan were fined 10 per cent of their players’ match fees after falling two overs behind the required rate, while Sri Lanka received a five per cent fine for being one over short, after time allowances were taken into account.

Jeff Crowe, a member of the Emirates ICC Elite Panel of Match Referees, imposed the penalties under Article 2.22 of the ICC Code of Conduct for Players and Player Support Personnel. The provision stipulates a fine of five per cent of a player’s match fee for every over a team fails to bowl within the allotted time.

Pakistan captain Shaheen Shah Afridi and Sri Lankan skipper Kusal Mendis admitted the offences and accepted the proposed sanctions. As a result, formal hearings were not required.

The charges were brought by on-field umpires Asif Yaqoob and Wayne Knights, third umpire Sharfuddoula Ibne Shahid, and fourth umpire Faisal Afridi.

Salman Ali Agha’s Century Powers Pakistan to Victory

Pakistan began their tri-series campaign on a winning note, defeating Sri Lanka by 37 runs in the opening fixture.

After Sri Lanka captain Kusal Mendis opted to field, Pakistan posted 305 runs before being bowled out in 49.5 overs. Salman Ali Agha was the standout performer, smashing 107 off 90 balls to register his fourth ODI century.

Babar Azam contributed 45 runs, while debutant Saad Baig scored 39 and Hasan Nawaz added 37 to strengthen Pakistan’s total.

For Sri Lanka, Eshan Malinga claimed four wickets for 46 runs, while Asitha Fernando picked up three wickets to restrict the hosts.

Sri Lanka Fall Short Despite Fighting Partnership

Chasing a target of 306, Sri Lanka were dismissed for 268 in 48.1 overs, handing Pakistan a 37-run victory.

Pavan Rathnayake top-scored with 79, while Janith Liyanage made 60. Their 119-run partnership for the fifth wicket revived Sri Lanka’s hopes of completing the chase, but Pakistan’s bowling attack broke through at crucial moments to regain control.

Shaheen Shah Afridi led the bowling effort with three wickets for 55 runs. Naseem Shah, Haris Rauf and Faheem Ashraf supported him with two wickets each.

Salman Ali Agha was named Player of the Match for his decisive century, which laid the foundation for Pakistan’s opening victory in the tri-series.

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WASHINGTON – Elon Musk, chief executive of SpaceX and one of the world’s richest people, has announced plans to gift shares in his company to all children in the United States in 2027.

According to the announcement, Musk intends to distribute shares among American children under the age of 18, although he has not yet disclosed how the proposed distribution would be carried out.

Musk reportedly owns 4.8 billion shares in SpaceX, representing approximately 48.4 per cent of the company. Based on the figures cited in the report, the proposed gift would amount to shares worth around $10.5 billion.

According to US population estimates as of July 1, 2025, the country had approximately 72 million children under the age of 18.

If implemented as announced, the plan would involve distributing SpaceX shares among millions of American children. However, Musk has not provided details about how the beneficiaries would be identified, how the shares would be allocated or how the arrangements would be managed.

Musk Calls It His First Donation

In a post on X, formerly Twitter, Musk described the proposed share distribution as his first donation and indicated that he intended to undertake similar initiatives in the future.

However, he did not specify the mechanism through which the shares would be transferred to children or whether additional eligibility conditions would apply.

The announcement has drawn attention to the possibility of distributing corporate ownership directly to members of the public rather than channelling shares through charitable organisations.

Remarks Follow Anthropic’s Public-Benefit Proposal

Musk made the announcement after artificial intelligence company Anthropic disclosed plans to allocate five per cent of its shares to a public-benefit fund.

Responding to Anthropic’s post on X, Musk suggested that the shares should instead be distributed directly to the public, referring to his own proposed initiative.

“I would suggest giving the shares directly to the public, as I intend to do,” Musk wrote in his response.

His comments highlighted a difference in the proposed approaches to distributing corporate wealth, with Anthropic outlining a public-benefit fund and Musk discussing direct share ownership for American children.

Further details about Musk’s proposed giveaway, including its implementation and the precise value of the shares at the time of distribution, have yet to be announced.

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RAWALPINDI – Newly appointed Saudi Ambassador to Pakistan, Dr. Rajeh Tami Albugamy, called on Chief of Army Staff and Chief of Defence Forces Field Marshal Syed Asim Munir at General Headquarters (GHQ) in Rawalpindi, where the two sides discussed matters of mutual interest, regional security and bilateral defence cooperation.

According to a statement issued by the Inter-Services Public Relations (ISPR), the meeting focused on strengthening defence collaboration, institutional ties and strategic coordination between Pakistan and Saudi Arabia.

Both dignitaries expressed satisfaction over the progress achieved under the framework of the Makkah Joint Defence Agreement and reaffirmed the importance of further enhancing cooperation between the two countries in defence and security matters.

During the meeting, Field Marshal Asim Munir congratulated Dr. Albugamy on his appointment as Saudi Arabia’s ambassador to Pakistan and expressed confidence that his tenure would contribute to further strengthening the longstanding relations between the two brotherly countries.

The ISPR said Pakistan-Saudi Arabia relations are rooted in shared faith, mutual trust and a strategic partnership, with both countries maintaining close ties across various fields.

The meeting underscored the commitment of Pakistan and Saudi Arabia to deepen their defence partnership, strengthen institutional linkages and maintain strategic coordination amid evolving regional security dynamics.

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ISLAMABAD – Minister of State for Interior Talal Chaudhry has said that the number of blue passports issued in Pakistan has been reduced from 75,000 to 45,000, stressing that the issue has serious implications for the country’s international passport ranking.

Speaking in the Senate during a discussion on the Passport Bill, Chaudhry said the number of blue passports was a matter of significant importance, as it could directly affect Pakistan’s global passport standing.

He explained that Pakistan previously had around 75,000 blue passports, but the number had now been brought down to 45,000.

According to the minister, the issue goes beyond the issuance of travel documents, as the number of blue passports is also relevant to Pakistan’s efforts to improve its international passport ranking and secure greater travel facilitation for its citizens.

Blue Passports Feature in Visa-Free Travel Talks

Chaudhry said that when Pakistan holds discussions with other countries regarding visa-free entry arrangements, foreign governments also inquire about the number of blue passports issued by Pakistan.

He noted that Pakistan had previously informed other countries that approximately 75,000 blue passports were in circulation, adding that the number had already been reduced.

The minister emphasised that the issuance and overall number of blue passports must be treated seriously because of their potential implications for Pakistan’s international standing and negotiations over travel privileges.

Talal Chaudhry Opposes Blue Passports for Former MPs

The minister also expressed opposition to issuing blue passports to former members of parliament.

He said the government should review the practice of extending such passports beyond those who are officially entitled to them.

Chaudhry further stated that if blue passports were also being issued to the children of government officials, the practice should be stopped.

He stressed the need for stricter scrutiny of the eligibility criteria and issuance of blue passports, arguing that the matter was closely linked to Pakistan’s international passport status and ranking.

The minister’s remarks came during the Senate’s consideration of the Passport Bill, highlighting concerns over the issuance of official travel documents and their broader implications for the country’s diplomatic and travel arrangements.

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GREATER NOIDA – The mysterious deaths of five members of a family in Greater Noida, in the Indian state of Uttar Pradesh, have sparked concern, with authorities investigating the circumstances surrounding the deaths of a couple and their three children.

According to Indian media reports, the family ate noodles on Friday night before the deaths occurred. However, authorities have not yet established any conclusive link between the meal and the deaths.

Food Safety Officials Examine Food Products

Food safety officials investigating the incident examined packets of food items and other consumables used by the family to determine whether contaminated or expired products could have contributed to the tragedy.

Food Safety Officer OP Singh said the inspection did not reveal any issues with expiry dates or any immediately suspicious substances in the packets examined.

According to Singh, the team reviewed the food products consumed by the family, but the preliminary inspection did not identify anything that could explain the deaths.

He also noted that food poisoning typically causes symptoms such as vomiting and diarrhoea, although the absence of these symptoms alone cannot establish the cause of death.

Poisoning Suspected, but No Confirmation Yet

With the initial examination failing to identify any suspicious substances in the food products, a food safety official raised the possibility that the family may have been poisoned.

However, poisoning remains only a suspicion at this stage and has not been established as the cause of death.

Authorities are continuing their investigation to determine what led to the deaths of all five family members. The exact cause of death remains unknown, and further investigative findings will be crucial in clarifying the circumstances of the incident.

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LAHORE –  The Punjab government has announced plans to impose a ban on spy gadgets and covert electronic devices to protect citizens’ privacy, personal information and fundamental rights.

The proposed measure aims to prevent violations of privacy, harassment and blackmail carried out through secret surveillance and the unauthorised recording of individuals.

According to the government’s decision, strict legal action will be taken against the illegal use and sale of everyday items equipped with hidden cameras and recording devices. These include glasses, pens, watches and other electronic gadgets that can be used to secretly monitor people or record their personal information.

The initiative will particularly focus on preventing the use of such devices to monitor individuals’ activities or collect private information without their consent.

Women and Children’s Safety a Key Priority

The Punjab government said one of the major objectives of the move is to ensure the safety of women and children and protect them from covert recording, illegal surveillance, harassment and blackmail.

The decision comes amid concerns and complaints regarding invasions of privacy and the misuse of personal information through concealed surveillance equipment.

Authorities aim to discourage the unlawful use of everyday objects fitted with hidden cameras and other recording technology, particularly when such devices are used to violate individuals’ privacy or exploit sensitive personal information.

Strict Action Against Illegal Use of Hidden Cameras

The government has emphasised that protecting citizens’ personal information, private lives and fundamental rights is essential.

It said measures would be taken to discourage the illegal use of devices equipped with concealed cameras and to initiate legal proceedings against those found responsible for unlawful surveillance.

The proposed restrictions are intended to strengthen privacy protections and address concerns over the growing misuse of covert recording technology.

However, further details regarding the implementation of the ban, its legal framework and the specific penalties for violations were not provided in the announcement.

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Former South African captain and legendary batter AB de Villiers has revealed that he faced the risk of losing his eyesight after doctors discovered a detached retina in his right eye following his retirement from cricket.

Speaking on a podcast, de Villiers disclosed that the condition had affected his right eye during his playing career. However, because it was not his dominant eye, he believed the problem had not significantly affected his performance on the field.

The former cricketer said he had experienced blurred vision in his right eye during the Indian Premier League (IPL), particularly while playing night matches.

Despite these symptoms, de Villiers did not want to undergo surgery while he was still playing professional cricket. He therefore decided to have his eye examined after retiring from the game.

Following the examination, doctors diagnosed the retinal problem and operated on him the very next day. According to de Villiers, the medical team warned him that any further delay could have resulted in permanent vision loss.

Son’s Accidental Injury Linked to Eye Problem

In December 2023, de Villiers revealed that his son had accidentally struck him in the eye with his heel, causing the injury.

The former South African star said he had continued playing cricket for the final two years of his career while dealing with the retinal condition.

His revelation has highlighted the seriousness of eye injuries in professional sports and the importance of seeking timely medical attention when experiencing vision problems.

AB de Villiers’ Remarkable Cricket Career

Widely known as “Mr 360” for his extraordinary ability to play shots all around the ground, de Villiers is regarded as one of the most versatile and destructive batters in modern cricket.

During his international career, he scored 8,765 runs in 114 Test matches and 9,577 runs in 228 One-Day Internationals (ODIs) for South Africa.

He also holds the distinction of setting records for the fastest half-century, century and 150 runs in ODI cricket, underlining his reputation as one of the game’s most explosive batters.

Despite retiring from international cricket in 2018, de Villiers remains one of the most celebrated figures in the sport, particularly for his innovative stroke play and remarkable batting achievements.

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KARACHI – A new case of poliovirus has been reported in Karachi East district of Sindh, bringing the total number of polio cases reported across Pakistan in 2026 to seven, according to the National Emergency Operations Centre (National EOC).

According to the National EOC, five of the seven polio cases reported in the country so far this year have been detected in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, while the remaining two cases have been reported in Sindh.

The latest case has raised concerns about the continued circulation of poliovirus and the importance of maintaining vaccination efforts to protect children against the potentially debilitating disease.

The last polio case in Karachi was reported in December 2024, according to the National EOC.

Polio is an infectious disease caused by poliovirus that primarily affects children under the age of five. It can cause permanent paralysis and, in severe cases, can be fatal. Although there is no cure for polio, the disease can be prevented through vaccination.

National Polio Vaccination Campaign Scheduled for November

The National EOC has announced that the next nationwide polio vaccination campaign will be conducted from November 2 to November 8, 2026.

The campaign will cover 97 districts across Pakistan, including all districts of Karachi, as part of the country’s ongoing efforts to prevent the spread of poliovirus and protect children from the disease.

During the campaign, health workers will administer polio vaccine drops to more than 23.9 million children under the age of five across the country.

The campaign aims to strengthen population immunity, particularly among young children who remain vulnerable to poliovirus infection.

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RAWALPINDI – Pakistan batter and Test captain Babar Azam has achieved a major milestone in international cricket, surpassing 16,000 career runs across all formats.

Babar reached the landmark during Pakistan’s opening match against Sri Lanka in the tri-nation ODI series at the Rawalpindi Cricket Stadium.

According to the reported statistics, the 32-year-old has scored 16,038 runs in international cricket, becoming the fifth Pakistani batter to cross the 16,000-run mark.

His tally includes 4,771 runs in 66 Test matches, 6,671 runs in 144 One-Day Internationals (ODIs) and 4,596 runs in 145 Twenty20 Internationals (T20Is).

Babar has also registered 32 international centuries and 111 half-centuries across the three formats.

Pakistan’s Leading Run-Scorers in International Cricket

Former Pakistan captain and legendary batter Inzamam-ul-Haq tops the list of Pakistan’s highest run-scorers in international cricket, with 20,541 runs in 495 matches.

Former captain Younis Khan occupies second place, having scored 17,790 runs in 408 international matches.

Babar’s latest achievement further strengthens his standing among Pakistan’s leading batters across all three formats of the game.

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ISLAMABAD –  Maldivian President Dr Mohamed Muizzu will undertake a three-day state visit to Pakistan from October 20 to 22 at the invitation of Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif, the Foreign Office (FO) announced on Sunday.

President Muizzu will be accompanied by First Lady Sajidha Mohamed and a high-level delegation comprising cabinet ministers and senior officials, according to an FO statement.

During his visit, the Maldivian president will meet President Asif Ali Zardari, who will host a state banquet in his honour. Muizzu will also hold restricted and delegation-level talks with Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif.

The discussions will focus on reviewing the full range of bilateral relations and exploring opportunities to expand cooperation in key sectors, including trade, investment, health, education, tourism, agriculture, defence, maritime security, climate change and people-to-people exchanges.

The two leaders will also exchange views on regional and international developments of mutual interest.

As part of the visit, a Pakistan-Maldives Business Forum will be organised to strengthen engagement between the business communities of the two countries and identify new opportunities for trade and investment.

The Foreign Office said several agreements and memorandums of understanding covering different areas of bilateral cooperation are expected to be signed during the visit.

First Visit by a Maldivian President in 11 Years

According to the Foreign Office, Muizzu’s visit will be the first by a Maldivian president to Pakistan in 11 years. It also coincides with the 60th anniversary of diplomatic relations between the two countries, established in 1966.

Pakistan and the Maldives maintain friendly relations based on shared religious and cultural ties, mutual respect and longstanding goodwill. Both countries also cooperate at regional and international forums.

The Foreign Office said the upcoming visit reflected the shared commitment of Pakistan and the Maldives to strengthening their bilateral partnership and opening new avenues for mutually beneficial cooperation.

The visit is expected to provide an opportunity to deepen diplomatic engagement, expand economic ties and strengthen collaboration across a range of sectors.

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An Indian court in Jhansi, Uttar Pradesh, has issued a non-bailable warrant against well-known actress Rakhi Sawant in connection with a 2010 suicide case.

According to Indian media reports, the case relates to alleged derogatory remarks made by Sawant about a man on her television programme, Rakhi Ka Insaaf, who later allegedly died by suicide.

The report stated that an Additional District and Sessions Judge at a fast-track court issued the warrant on October 16 after the actress repeatedly failed to appear before the court. Police have been directed to arrest Sawant and produce her before the court.

According to Indian media, public prosecutor Mridul Kant Srivastava said the next hearing in the case is scheduled for December 1.

The case concerns the death of Laxman Ahirwar, a resident of the Hansari Prem Nagar area of Jhansi, who died on November 10, 2010.

Following his death, his mother, Savitri, filed a complaint alleging that Sawant had used insulting and inappropriate language about her son during an episode of her television programme broadcast in October 2010.

The allegations and the circumstances surrounding the case are subject to judicial proceedings.

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LAHORE – Pakistan international cricketer Imam-ul-Haq has been granted permission to play domestic cricket and will represent Oil and Gas Development Company Limited (OGDCL) in the Patrons Trophy Grade-I tournament, sources said.

According to sources, Imam-ul-Haq will be available for OGDCL in the final round of the tournament, which begins tomorrow.

Sources further said that the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) had informed OGDCL about the approval granted to the opening batter, while the department has also confirmed his availability.

Meanwhile, Pakistan wicketkeeper-batter Mohammad Rizwan has also been granted permission to play first-class cricket.

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KARACHI – Pakistan Peoples Party (PPP) Chairman Bilawal Bhutto-Zardari said on Sunday that the governor’s rule and emergency imposed in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa (KP) could be lifted if the opposition agreed to work with the government on a joint strategy to combat terrorism.

Speaking to the media during a visit to the Karsaz Monument on the 19th anniversary of the Karsaz bombing, Bilawal called for political unity and consensus to address the country’s worsening security challenges.

“If the opposition is ready to fight terrorism and we agree on a plan, then the emergency and governor’s rule in KP can come to an end,” he said, urging opposition parties to engage with the federal government and other political stakeholders to develop a unified counterterrorism policy.

His remarks came a week after the federal government imposed governor’s rule and an emergency in KP, citing what it described as the provincial government’s deliberate disengagement from counterterrorism efforts. The decision followed a mobilisation campaign and protest march by Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI), which governs KP and is in opposition at the federal level, demanding the release of its jailed founder, Imran Khan.

Call for a united front against terrorism

Bilawal warned that Pakistan was facing security challenges across multiple regions, saying terrorist attacks were taking place from Khyber to Khuzdar.

Referring to developments following the change of government in Afghanistan in 2021, he criticised the then Pakistani government’s policy of allowing members of the banned Tehreek-e-Taliban Pakistan (TTP) to return from Afghanistan and resettle in areas including Swat, Malakand and the former tribal districts.

He also claimed that TTP members who had been imprisoned in Pakistan were released during that period.

“Today, Pakistan is suffering the losses from these wrong decisions,” Bilawal said, arguing that the consequences of those policies had contributed to the current security challenges.

He added that the country was once again facing threats to its stability, with security personnel, law enforcement officials and civilians being targeted in terrorist attacks.

Bilawal criticises KP government’s counterterrorism approach

The PPP chairman criticised the KP government’s response to terrorism, claiming that the province was experiencing the highest number of terrorist incidents while its chief minister, Sohail Afridi, had indicated that he would not confront the militants.

“If the Khyber Pakhtunkhwa chief minister was not ready to defend his homeland and fight those terrorists, then the PPP is ready to fight them,” Bilawal said, defending his party’s support for the federal government’s decision to impose governor’s rule in the province.

He maintained that the PPP was prepared to work with all political forces to combat terrorism and stressed that the fight required collective national commitment rather than the efforts of a single party or institution.

Calls for a new National Action Plan

Bilawal said Pakistan’s experience had demonstrated that counterterrorism efforts were most effective when the government, political parties, security institutions and the public worked together.

He recalled that when the PPP was in government in 2008, it had sought to build public support for counterterrorism operations and pursue institutional reforms to address the threat.

He said national unity remained essential to defeating militant groups and warned that the country would struggle to achieve lasting success without a common strategy.

Referring to his recent address to the National Assembly, Bilawal said he had called for a new National Action Plan and a broader political consensus on combating terrorism. He also invited opposition parties to participate in consultations aimed at developing a joint policy.

“If we can create such an environment, we will be in a better position to fight terrorists,” he said.

Opposition urged to participate in electoral reforms

The PPP chairman also discussed efforts to strengthen the democratic system through electoral reforms. He said the federal government had decided to establish an electoral reforms committee and that the opposition had been invited to participate.

“If they say that democracy is weak in this country, then they should help us to strengthen it,” Bilawal said, urging opposition parties to engage constructively with the government on institutional and democratic reforms.

He reiterated that political engagement and consensus were necessary not only to improve democratic institutions but also to develop a coordinated response to terrorism.

Bilawal said the PPP had yet to achieve the Pakistan envisioned by former prime minister Benazir Bhutto, but the party continued to work towards that goal.

PPP’s position on the creation of new provinces

Responding to a question about the creation of new provinces or administrative units, Bilawal said Interior Minister Mohsin Naqvi was aware of the positions held by the PPP and President Asif Ali Zardari on the matter.

He clarified that the issue was not one to be decided solely by the president, stressing that any new province should be created in accordance with the Constitution and the law and with the agreement of the relevant provincial assembly.

Bilawal said the PPP supported the creation of new provinces where there was genuine consensus and the proposal was not being used for political purposes.

Citing Gilgit-Baltistan as an example, he referred to the consensus within its legislative assembly on the demand for constitutional rights.

“If we really want this to be implemented, it must only be implemented where the provinces want this,” he said, emphasising that constitutional procedures and the wishes of the relevant regions should guide any such decision.

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ISLAMABAD – Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Ishaq Dar held a telephone conversation with Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi to discuss the prevailing situation in the region and matters of mutual interest.

According to Express News, the two leaders exchanged views on regional developments and the upcoming meeting of the Council of Foreign Ministers of the Organisation of Islamic Cooperation (OIC).

During the conversation, Ishaq Dar emphasised the importance of dialogue and diplomatic engagement in resolving regional issues. He underscored the need to address challenges through negotiations and peaceful means.

The two leaders also agreed to remain in contact and continue consultations on regional matters.

The telephone conversation reflects ongoing diplomatic engagement between Pakistan and Iran as both countries discuss regional developments and issues of mutual concern.

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ISLAMABAD – World Space Week 2026 was celebrated for the first time in Narowal with the support of the Space and Upper Atmosphere Research Commission (SUPARCO), under the vision of Federal Minister for Planning Ahsan Iqbal, to promote awareness of space science, scientific research and modern technology among young people.

Addressing the closing ceremony in Narowal, Ahsan Iqbal announced that Pakistan’s first astronaut would depart on a space mission from a Chinese space centre on November 25. He also said Pakistan had set a target of landing on the Moon by 2035, adding that cooperation with China would help the country reach new heights in space exploration.

The federal minister highlighted the growing role of space technology in various sectors, including agriculture, communications, climate change monitoring, education and national security. He said space research was essential for future development, scientific discoveries and the advancement of human knowledge.

Referring to the teachings of the Holy Quran, Iqbal said Islam encourages people to reflect on the creation of the universe. He stressed the need to foster scientific curiosity, research and a passion for knowledge among young people.

He also noted that Muslim scientists had historically made significant contributions to astronomy and scientific research, saying Pakistan needed to regain a leading position in knowledge and research.

Highlighting the achievements of the University of Narowal, Iqbal cited its first-place finish at the Islamabad Science Festival as evidence of the potential of Pakistan’s youth. He said young Pakistanis were achieving distinction through education and research, including students who had previously faced financial barriers to higher education.

To further encourage interest in space science, the minister announced plans to establish Pakistan’s first space museum at the University of Narowal. The initiative aims to promote scientific awareness and inspire young people to explore emerging fields of technology.

Iqbal said the government was working to provide young people with greater opportunities in advanced technology and emerging scientific disciplines, enabling them to contribute to Pakistan’s progress through knowledge, innovation and research.

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The Bank of Punjab (BOP) marked the financial close of a PKR 17 billion Syndicated Islamic Project Finance Facility for Novacare Hospitals (Private) Limited at a signing ceremony bringing together the project’s sponsors, management and participating financial institutions.

The facility will support the development of a 250-bed tertiary care hospital and a feeder clinic in Islamabad. Novacare Hospitals (Private) Limited is Pakistan’s first and only hospital to be affiliated with Imperial College Healthcare NHS Trust. With sponsors contributing PKR 11.5 billion in equity, the total project cost is approximately PKR 28.5 billion.

The transaction represents Pakistan’s first greenfield hospital financed under a Syndicated Islamic Project Finance Facility, establishing a precedent for mobilising long-term financing for healthcare infrastructure.

BOP arranged and structured the facility as Intercreditor Agent and acted as Joint Mandated Lead Advisor & Arranger alongside United Bank Limited and Habib Bank Limited, with Pak China Investment Company Limited as Co-Arranger., PAIR Investment Company Limited and Pak Libya Holding Company Limited participated as syndicate financiers. BOP’s financing commitment of PKR 5.8 billion reflects its confidence in the project and its importance to Pakistan’s healthcare sector.

Mr. Hans Kedzierski, CEO of Novacare Hospitals (Private) Limited, thanked the participating institutions for their support and shared Novacare’s vision of delivering international standards of healthcare in Pakistan, with patient care and empathy at the heart of its mission.

Speaking at the ceremony, Mr. Zafar Masud, President & CEO of The Bank of Punjab, said: “Healthcare touches every one of us. At some point, we have needed care for ourselves or someone we love, and we understand the difference that a good hospital and a skilled doctor can make. That is why Novacare has always meant more to us than a financing transaction. It is an investment in the care, dignity and wellbeing of the people this hospital will serve.”

Commenting on the financing, he added: “Bringing this project to financial close required conviction from the sponsors and close collaboration among all six participating institutions. Together, we have established a financing framework that we hope will make it easier for future healthcare projects in Pakistan to access long-term capital. If the next hospital finds its path to financing easier because of what we have achieved here, that will be a lasting contribution.”

Mr. Masud congratulated Novacare’s sponsors, Board and management, and acknowledged the contribution of the participating institutions, advisers, legal counsel and BOP’s Investment Banking and Project Finance teams.

“Financial close is an important milestone, but the real achievement will be the day the hospital opens its doors to patients. We look forward to supporting Novacare through construction and commissioning, and to seeing this vision become a place of healing and hope,” he said.

The transaction underscores BOP’s commitment to financing projects that strengthen essential infrastructure and deliver lasting economic and social benefits.

The post The Bank of Punjab Leads Structuring of PKR 17 Billion Islamic Project Finance Facility for Novacare Hospital Islamabad appeared first on Daily Pakistan English News.

ISLAMABAD – TTP-linked and Afghan-based media accounts are circulating old videos with misleading captions to portray past incidents as current developments in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa (KP), raising concerns about the spread of misinformation and attempts to create fear and confusion among the public.

The circulation of recycled footage comes amid reports of a decline in terrorist activity across KP over the past week. The new administration has signalled renewed resolve to combat terrorist networks, creating a more conducive environment for counterterrorism efforts. Against this backdrop, the resurfacing of old videos appears aimed at portraying a misleading picture of the current security situation.

Claims circulating on social media that Pakistani soldiers are surrendering in groups have been described as baseless. Reposting old footage alongside sensational captions does not establish that the alleged incidents are taking place at present. The date, location and original context of such videos must be verified before they can be treated as evidence of current events.

Meanwhile, TTP-linked, PTI-associated and Afghan-based accounts have been accused of amplifying these narratives through the repeated circulation of old or misleading footage. Critics argue that such content can distort public understanding, undermine confidence in security institutions and create an exaggerated impression of instability.

The issue highlights the importance of verifying videos through reliable sources before sharing them, particularly during sensitive security developments. Establishing the original date and location of footage is essential to distinguishing genuine reporting from recycled material intended to influence public perception.

As counterterrorism efforts continue in KP, claims circulating online should be assessed against independently verified information rather than sensational captions or unsubstantiated allegations.

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KARACHI – Pakistan’s information technology (IT) exports increased by 19% year-on-year to $435 million in September, reaching their highest level in nine months.

According to the State Bank of Pakistan (SBP), IT exports also recorded a 10% month-on-month increase. During the first quarter of the current fiscal year, from July to September, IT exports reached $1.25 billion.

The central bank’s data further showed that IT exports increased by 20% between September last year and September this year, rising from $4 billion to $4.8 billion over the 12-month period.

Under the government’s Uraan Pakistan plan, a target has been set to increase the country’s IT exports to $10 billion by the end of fiscal year 2028-29.

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KARACHI – Mastercard and BankIslami have collaborated to expand the bank’s consumer and commercial card offerings and support the continued growth of digital payments in Pakistan.

Under the agreement, BankIslami will develop a broader portfolio of debit, credit and business card solutions to meet the needs of its diverse customer base, including individual account holders, micro, small & medium-sized enterprises (MSMEs) and commercial clients.

The collaboration includes a priority banking program featuring Mastercard World cards, along with Mastercard World Elite cards for affluent customers. It also covers BankIslami’s Shariah-compliant credit card program for customers across mass-market and affluent segments. The bank will also expand its Shariah-compliant offerings for corporates and small and medium-sized enterprises through debit cards and Business Payment Controls, helping businesses manage payments and optimise their supply chain processes.

In addition, Mastercard will support the launch of BankIslami’s unified loyalty platform across its card portfolio, providing customers with a consistent rewards and benefits experience.

“This collaboration with Mastercard strengthens our ability to provide customers with a broader range of Shariah-compliant card and payment solutions across individual and business banking”, said Imran H Shaikh, President & Chief Executive Officer of BankIslami. “Our goal is to make Islamic banking the preferred choice for customers by combining Shariah-compliant solutions with the convenience and capabilities they expect from modern digital banking,” he added.

“Mastercard powers commerce by connecting people and businesses through digital payment technology. Working with BankIslami, we are expanding payment options for consumers and small businesses in Pakistan, supporting the bank’s Shariah-compliant card offerings and helping more customers participate in the digital economy,” said Arslan Khan, country manager, Pakistan and Afghanistan, Mastercard.

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