The government on Tuesday increased the price of petrol by Re0.88 per litre and that of high-speed diesel (HSD) by Re0.53.
Following the revision, petrol will retail at Rs382.02 per litre while HSD will cost Rs389.80 per litre. The government continues to levy Rs114 per litre in taxes and duties on petrol and Rs100 per litre on diesel.
According to the Petroleum Division’s notification, the new prices are applicable for Oct 21 (Wednesday).
The price of HSD has come down from a peak of Rs520.35 recorded on April 3. Its price had started rising from Rs281 per litre after the US-Iran war broke out on February 28.
Meanwhile, the government has reintroduced a raft of austerity measures in response to rising fuel prices amid the ongoing Middle East conflict. Under these measures, markets are required to close by 9pm and fuel allocations for official vehicles has been cut by 50 per cent for three months.
On September 13, Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif also announced a “relief scheme” for users of motorcycles, autos and vehicles of up to 800cc to “alleviate the burden” of rising global oil prices.
Previously, on July 17, Petroleum Minister Ali Pervaiz Malik announced that fuel prices would now be fixed on a daily basis due to fluctuations in international market prices following renewed hostilities between Iran and the US.
Prior to this, the government had been announcing weekly revisions to fuel prices since early March, alongside measures for the conservation of fuel amid possible oil supply disruptions due to the ongoing conflict in the Middle East. The federal government in April also announced targeted relief measures to provide subsidised fuel.
The petroleum minister stated that the cabinet and the prime minister had decided to give the Oil and Gas Regulatory Authority (Ogra) the responsibility of deciding fuel prices on a daily basis based on international market trends.
Petrol is mainly used in private transport, small vehicles, rickshaws and two-wheelers, and changes in its price affect the middle and lower-middle classes.
Similarly, changes in diesel prices also impact the public at large, as it is mainly used in the heavy transport sector, power plants and large generators.
Petrol and high-speed diesel (HSD) are the major revenue earners, with monthly sales of about 700,000 to 800,000 tonnes, compared to just 10,000 tonnes of monthly demand for kerosene.
Adviser to the National Command Authority (NCA) and former director general of the Strategic Plans Division (SPD) retired Lieutenant General Mazhar Jamil has warned of the “risky” outcome for South Asia and beyond of a “dangerous ideology” shaping the Indian military mindset.
“Indian military thinking is being shaped by a dangerous ideology, which conflates mythology with national power. The outcome is very risky and delusional Indian military doctrines with a poor strategic sense of nuclear realities are endangering South Asia and beyond,” he said in his key note address at a workshop titled ‘Nuclear Deterrence and Strategic Stability in South Asia’.
The workshop, held last week in London, was organised by the International Institute for Strategic Studies, which shared a transcript of Jamil’s address late on Monday.
He began by saying that a strategic stability model for a region must take into consideration the political beliefs and strategic thinking of states, which formed the basis of policies.
And that shaped the strategic and security environment in the region, he explained.
“The political and strategic thinking of states, therefore, should prefer [a] political approach because military adventurism, hegemonic ambitions are highly risky and unaffordable in the South Asian nuclearised environment,” Jamil stressed, before specifically talking about India and Pakistan.
The two South Asian rivals, he said, had outstanding disputes, Kashmir being the core one.
“It needs to be resolved as per the United Nations Security Council resolutions. But, what we are seeing, on the contrary, is [an] Indian political approach of avoiding the resolution of conflict, because perhaps the Indian leadership believes it has no locus standi on Kashmir when it is presented on the multilateral forums,” Jamil said.
He added that India “tries to manage [the] Kashmir conflict with military violence within occupied Kashmir and through military aggression against Pakistan. This has not worked, and therefore Kashmir remains a nuclear flashpoint, seriously impacting the South Asian strategic and security environment”.
The security perceptions in South Asia had not evolved in a vacuum, Jamil continued.
“Indian revisionist and hegemonic political aspirations have [a] long history of Indian coercion and militant violence against all [of] its neighbours. Indian political ideology is based on its mythological concept of violence and revisionism, according to which South Asia, they believe — this traditional belief — that it belongs to [the] Hindu civilisation.
“And, not surprisingly, the country was given a dual name in the constitution, India, that is Bharat, clearly defining the strategic direction of the state to be Bharat,” he said.
Jamil said Bharat was essentially a “revisionist concept that is rooted in reclaiming [the] vast landmass of South Asia and its domination by Hindu civilisation”.
“Indian political forces, interestingly, do not shy away anymore in projecting what previous governments pursued covertly. Very surprisingly, the map of Mahabharat, the greater Bharat, as they call it, covering [the] entire landmass of South Asia, is on the display in the Lok Sabha. That’s the parliament of India, clearly giving the political direction to the state and the state organisations.
“So, no wonder, beyond [the] core nuclear diet of India–Pakistan, India’s conflict with all other countries serves as a perpetual driver of [the] evolving security dynamics in South Asia,” he added.
He also mentioned a recent “political transformation, led by the extremist Hindutva doctrine, that seeks to marginalise and delegitimise [the] non-Hindu population of the state, especially the Muslims”, in India.
“This has introduced an additional layer of complexity to the regional security environment. This marks a significant shift towards a nationalism, which is prejudiced by extreme theological principles,” Jamil said. “So, what we see is that we have a nuclear-armed neighbour whose political and strategic thinking is subordinated to a revisionist, mythological outlook with an overconfidence to subdue its neighbours. This dangerous political philosophy has trickled into the Indian political, strategic, organisational and even societal culture.”
The NCA adviser went on to say that this mindset had also, “unfortunately, penetrated deeply into Indian military thinking”.
Two diametrically opposing strategic approaches
Continuing his criticism, Jamil said it seemed that the Indian leadership was “frozen in time and is unable to break the shackles of history”.
“Indian political- and mythological-laced stubbornness is not allowing India to realise three very fundamental but significant conclusions and lessons,” he said, adding that those lessons were vital for strategic stability in South Asia.
He said the first of those lessons was that conflicts outlasted military adventurism and wars, unless they were resolved politically.
“The resolution of the Kashmir conflict, therefore, needs a political approach and dialogue to achieve stability at [the] higher political planes,” he asserted.
The second lesson, he said, was that any military misadventurism between two nuclear powers could only escalate the crisis to undesirable consequences and could not serve any purpose to the policy.
In this connection, he added that the Indian leadership needed to understand that it “cannot dictate its unjustified and illegal policy objectives through military aggression to another nuclear power”.
Moving on to the third lesson, Jamil said it was “pivotal to the crisis dynamics of South Asia”. He then cited military scholar Carl von Clausewitz, who Jamil said had warned that “war is the realm of uncertainty and escalation is really a control ladder”.
Elaborating further, he said: “War is the realm of uncertainty and the lesson from the history of warfare and theory alike is clear. Wars that begin with confidence and control often end with the realisation that control was illusory.
“In a nuclearised environment of South Asia, that realisation may come too late to manage safely, if [the] Indian policy of provocation with [a] false sense of achieving escalation domination continues.”
Resultantly, he said, “what we are seeing in South Asia are two diametrically opposing strategic approaches, directed by the political ideology of India and Pakistan […] which define the strategic and security environment of South Asia”.
The Indian strategic approach, he said, sought political and military dominance to be a “regional hegemon with a revisionist political thinking”.
Whereas Pakistan’s strategic approach was directed at the resolution of conflicts through a political process with shared prosperity and to defend the sovereignty with strength against a “regional bully”, he added.
‘Irresponsible nuclear behaviour’
He then shared his views on how the global geopolitical environment and emerging destructive technologies were impacting the strategic stability of South Asia.
“To me, there are three major outcomes of [the] contemporary global strategic environment that have influenced [the] Indian leadership’s strategic thinking and behaviour,” he said.
He said first of those outcomes was that in the Asia-Pacific balance-of-power struggle, India presented itself as a net security provider, to exploit this geopolitical competition for its own global power-projection ambitions.
“The US and Western powers did not dig deep into the actual political motives and capacity of India, [and] rather were too quick to grant this status to India. This, however, gave India a false sense of hegemony in the region,” he said.
The second outcome, Jamil said, pertained to the support by Indian technology partners and, “very strangely, also allowing India to get a Nuclear Suppliers Group waiver, in spite of its irresponsible nuclear behaviour”.
“Resultantly, India, now, is running one of the fastest-growing nuclear and missile programmes. This has been done with no regard and concern to arms control, a key factor in the strategic stability for the region. So, we now see India developing intercontinental ballistic missiles and submarine-launched ballistic missiles to reach the entire globe, with eight reactors outside International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) safeguards.”
Pointing out that India was not a party to the Treaty on the Non-Proliferation of Nuclear Weapons, he said its reactors outside IAEA safeguards “are operating as a potential source of fissile material for nuclear weapons”.
“From the nuclearisation of South Asia in 1974 to the nuclearisation of the Indian Ocean by Bharat speaks of its global power ambitions. I think what [we] should now worry about is this ambitious and revisionist state reaching to most of their capitals with no restraints and transparency, even to its own technology partners,” Jamil said.
He said the third outcome was about the policy of appeasement by “certain powers that has made India think that its exceptionalism will always be acceptable to the world”.
“Indian propaganda and [its] disinformation campaign was accepted without scrutiny and responsibility. No questions [were] asked to India about its human-rights violations in Kashmir and against minorities, where state institutions and Hindu extremists [are] conducting heinous crimes as a state policy,” he said, adding that it was only a matter of time before internal uprising in India-occupied Kashmir boiled over.
“That will have a serious impact on the security and stability of our region,” he warned.
In parallel, he said, India’s access to advanced technologies, space-based capabilities, dual-use weapons systems were also impacting strategic stability. “Dual-use platforms with precision-guided systems have blurred the lines between conventional and nuclear technologies, making it more dangerous for South Asia, due to its geographical proximities and also the sensitivities”.
“This also has to be seen against the backdrop of the irresponsible behaviour of India. The case in point is the intentional BrahMos missile attack on Pakistan on 9 March 2022. Strangely, it took India 48 hours to tell its nuclear neighbour about this incident,” Jamil recalled.
He added, “While India claimed this to be an accident, it speaks volumes about the dysfunctionality of Indian command-and-control systems, and maybe the presence of some rogue elements in their organisation, because India never shared the findings of [its] investigations for [the] sake of transparency and building some trust.”
Likewise, the launch of dual-capable BrahMos missiles during the four-day military conflict between Indian and Pakistan in May 2025 “was a deliberate act of provocation that could have caused catastrophic miscalculation”, Jamil said.
“So, it complicates the regional security dynamics, which already lacks institutionalised confidence-building measures and an arms-control mechanism aligned with the emerging technologies.”
Crisis management
Jamil also discussed the “crisis behaviour” of Pakistan and India in the 2019 and 2025 crises, saying that while the crisis management mechanism was vital for stability, responsible behaviour of leadership remained “the spirit and the key” to its success.
In the 2019 crisis, he pointed out, Modi had bragged at an election rally that India was “not storing nuclear weapons for Diwali”. The open threat was followed by the prime minister called the night of Feb 27, 2019 “Qatal ki Raat” or “Night of Slaughter” — “basically, boasting that India could have struck Pakistan with missiles to inflict huge human casualties”, he said.
“Such rhetorics and nuclear sabre-rattling is inconceivable during the crisis, and that too from the highest leadership of [a] nuclear state.”
Similarly, in May 2025, Indian leaders rushed to blame Pakistan for the April 22 deadly terror attack in Pahalgam without evidence or waiting for an investigation, he said. India then launched a military offensive despite Islamabad calling for an independent investigation into the incident.
Jamil said that India’s strategy aimed for “escalation domination” and that it planned to intimidate Pakistan via sheer force and the tempo of the operation; however, “Indian planners closely underestimated Pakistan’s resolve and capability”.
“The crisis of India’s making could have taken South Asia to the brink of nuclear catastrophe, saved only by the strategic restraint of Pakistan,” he stressed.
He added that Indian leadership had dismissed Pakistan’s nuclear deterrent as “mere nuclear bluff” and boasted about being able to “break Pakistan apart”. He emphasised that when “rhetorics and confidence” became policy, blunders were likely.
On the other hand, he said, Pakistan’s retaliation was not impulsive but rather had clear political direction and strategic restraint, denying India the space to “normalise coercive conventional aggression”.
He added that Pakistan made the responsible choice not to escalate and to agree to a ceasefire, noting, “I think in all fairness, India owes a thanks to (US) President Trump.” However, he highlighted that this responsible behaviour was being “deliberately misrepresented” by India as a bluff.
Strategic landscape post-2025
Jamil stressed that in the wake of the May 2025 conflict, there was an increased risk of escalation in the region. He highlighted the “revisionist agenda” of Modi that had “dangerously enhanced the conflict profile” of South Asia by holding the Indus Waters Treaty in abeyance, adding to the flashpoint of Kashmir, and continuing with “threats and compellence to another nuclear power”.
He added that India also supported terrorist organisations such as the Tehreek-i-Taliban Pakistan (TTP) and Balochistan Liberation Army (BLA), “exporting terrorism as an instrument of policy” to engineer instability in Pakistan.
“The space is shrinking between Indian aggressive posturing and Pakistan’s restraint,” he said.
Jamil also pointed out an assessment by a think tank, SIPRI, that India had mated some nuclear warheads with submarine-launched ballistic missiles and conducted sea-based deterrence patrols, without pre-notification.
“While Pakistan remains committed to peace, strategic stability and responsible nuclear stewardship, it cannot ignore these dangerous escalatory steps,” he said. “Pakistan reserves the right to undertake all appropriate measures to safeguard its national security.”
He emphasised that “the perpetual instability in South Asia can only be addressed when [the] strategic and political discourse of India takes a direction of political engagement and [the] resolution of conflicts, instead of political and military dominance”.
He called on India to shun the policy of supporting terrorist organisations such as the TTP and BLA, noting that Pakistan had presented “irrefutable evidence” of Indian state support to these organisations to the international community and the UNSC. He also called for the international community to hold India accountable for its involvement in supporting terrorism.
“It should be realised that the restraint and strategic patience of Pakistan has its own thresholds,” Jamil stated, adding that “in any future military aggression, the aggressor will have to bear a heavy cost”.
He stressed Pakistan’s readiness to move towards a political dialogue to resolve conflicts, including that of Kashmir, as a responsible nuclear state. He added that Pakistan offered to establish a robust crisis management mechanism as a first step towards this.
“Bharatiya leadership should not be allowed to hold hostage the welfare of two billion people of South Asia, in favour of their hegemonic and delusional revisionist aspirations,” he concluded.
KARACHI: A judicial commission formed to investigate the circumstances and possible negligence in businessman Mir Raza Ali’s murder case has pointed out the police’s “epic failure” in their investigation.
The Sindh cabinet decided to make the report public during a meeting chaired by Chief Minister Murad Ali Shah earlier in the day. The judicial commission, which began its proceedings on Aug 28, held regular hearings to record statements of several individuals linked to the case.
“This case demonstrates an epic failure by the police in their investigation,” declared the 62-page report submitted by Sindh High Court’s (SHC) Justice Omar Sial, who had been heading the judicial panel.
“The police breached all required procedures, both knowingly and unknowingly, necessary to withstand judicial scrutiny and a successful prosecution,” the report stated.
While acknowledging that the initial police response when they were informed of the presence of a body was prompt, the report noted that subsequent events “left a lot to be desired”.
“It was a murder,” the report declared.
It explained that the bullet trajectory, the unusual location of the wound if it had been a self-inflicted injury, the “absence of blood, the state of the body, the principles of medical jurisprudence, acid burns and the anaesthesia detected in the blood all clearly excluded suicide as the cause of death”.
The commission determined that releasing the police findings before a proper investigation was “premature and fell short of professional standards”.
“Even if the death had been a suicide, the police should have established who was responsible for driving a young man to that point, including whether coercion, blackmail, or instigation was involved. They made no such effort.”
It said the police investigation “failed in its most basic duty: to establish the truth”.
It further observed that “incessant public criticism of the police created problems” as the police “went into a shell, completely broke down communication channels, and took a position based on ego rather than on cogent, solid reasons”.
The report pointed out specific issues with the police conduct: “Lack of leadership, seriousness, and supervision, and, in some cases, negligence by the senior officers. The handling of this case has been like a rudderless ship, not aware of its destination.
“Ranging from negligent to criminally negligent, inexplicable, casual, and unprofessional investigation.”
According to the commission, an active cover-up in the initial stages of the investigation cannot be conclusively ruled out. It noted that senior police officers swept clear investigative lapses under the carpet, without acknowledging them, addressing them, or even attempting to do so.
“Too many cooks spoil the broth. The proverb is applicable to this case as far as the police are concerned,” the judicial commission observed.
“Dozens of police officers – authorised and unauthorised – were involved in collecting evidence in this case, approaching and interrogating crucial persons, and in most cases not documenting it in any manner,” it said, adding that therefore, no officer was willing to take responsibility for the lapses.
The inquiry said there was a need to mitigate public speculation by an “honest and timely briefing on the investigation”, but this was not done, and the family or the public were not updated through official disclosures.
“The police did not follow the commission’s recommendation to appoint a focal person for this reason. As a result, public speculation further embarrassed the government and the police.”
Regarding the controversy over the reconstitution of a medical board formed for the exhumation of Ali’s body, the report said: “The overnight bureaucratic manoeuvring was a highly irregular, inexplicable, legally flawed overreach dictated entirely from the upper echelons of the Sindh Health Secretariat, more specifically by the secretary and special secretary, Health.”
It added that the Health Services director general, “being aware that he was not legally competent to form a medical board for exhumation, looked the other way”.
“The two gentlemen who directed the change in the board could not give a cogent reason for the abrupt change, making it extremely controversial, fueling public speculation, and embarrassing the Sindh government.”
Referring to an Aug 9 meeting held at CM House, which “drew considerable speculation and controversy”, the report said that “no ulterior motive can be inferred from this meeting”. The meeting was attended by Medico-Legal Officer (MLO) Dr Osama Sheikh, who conducted Ali’s first autopsy, the Karachi police chief and other senior officials.
Observations on officials
Listing its observations for certain police officials involved in the case, the judicial panel identified “criminal negligence” on the part of Station House Officer (SHO) Adeel Afzal of Ferozabad police station.
“Initiate a comprehensive inquiry into him, leading to dismissal from service. He should be suspended in the interim. He must also be questioned to determine whether he has facilitated the destruction of key evidence,” the report read.
It also found criminal negligence by Sub-inspector Shabbir Leghari, the first investigating officer (IO) in the case, and called for disciplinary proceedings against him and his suspension.
The report also determined criminal negligence of Inspector Ghaus, but did not recommend any action against him.
Regarding DIG Farukh Lanjar and Senior Superintendent of Police (SSP) Samiullah Soomro, the commission noted a “lack of leadership and supervision”.
“Overconfidence. Unprofessional conduct not befitting a medical professional. Must not be assigned medico-legal duties unless he has undergone at least two years of rigorous academic and practical training.”
The report said he was “possibly influenced” and called for the angle to be “conclusively determined”.
Suicide vs murder
The report also said a voice note provided by Alishaz Mushtaq to police was “one of the most suspicious parts of this case”. It said that Mushtaq and ASP Nida Junaid, “played a very important role in supporting the police narrative that the death was due to suicide”.
It said that the person Mushtaq named as his source did not corroborate the information he provided, raising suspicion regarding his conduct.
It further said that the WhatsApp messages Ali sent to Sarim Bin Tahir asking for Rs30m, which was “full of uncharacteristic grammatical errors and truncated spellings and read as acute panic”, suggested the deceased was being “blackmailed or threatened”.
It also noted that while CCTV footage showed Ali with a pistol on the night he was killed, this was “unusual”.
“All his close friends and associates told the Commission that Raza did not possess or use pistols. They said he would probably not even know how to handle one. Witnesses also vouched for his peace-loving, calm, and gentle demeanour. Why he took the pistol remained a mystery. The pistol, however, has not been found to date,” it said.
It further said: “The known financial distress was also not of such a nature that would lead a person to suicide. Ali’s behaviour, until the ride-hailing service dropped him off, did not suggest he was ready to take an extreme step for this reason.”
Recommendations
Suggesting the next steps, the judicial commission said accommodating the family’s request for a joint investigation team (JIT) was the “most viable path to mitigate ongoing reputational damage to the Government of Sindh”.
It recommended that a JIT be constituted under the leadership of Deputy Inspector General (DIG) Irfan Baloch to “balance the need for public accountability with preserving Sindh Police morale and reputation”.
The report said the team should “integrate senior representatives from the Inter-Services Intelligence (ISI), Intelligence Bureau (IB), Pakistan Rangers (Sindh), and the National Cyber Crime Investigation Agency (NCCIA) to ensure an impartial, comprehensive, and credible resolution.
“This extreme step is necessary to restore public trust and end speculation,” it stressed.
The commission contended that any subsequent police actions will inevitably face heavy public speculation, determining that the police department “bears responsibility for this profound trust deficit between itself and society”.
“Even an accurate conclusion or the apprehension of the true culprit is unlikely to be accepted by the public,” it added.
The report pointed out that the case could now “only be resolved through a rigorous, intelligence-based investigation as a “significant portion of physical evidence has been compromised”.
It called for the police to “transparently acknowledge and apologise for past operational lapses”, as well as immediately initiate formal inquiries against the responsible officers in light of the report.
While stating that it did not have investigative powers and that it was difficult to conclude conclusively that an active cover-up occurred, the commission noted that “certain inexplicable actions are difficult to justify and raise the possibility that one may have occurred”.
Therefore, it suggested that a high-level committee, preferably led by the Federal Investigation Agency (FIA), be constituted to initiate criminal action against any police officials it finds culpable.
The committee would inquire into “whether any of the police officials involved in this probe in the first 10 days” were in breach of sections 201 (causing disappearance of evidence of offence), 166(2) (public servant disobeying law, with intent to cause injury) and 218 (public servant framing incorrect record or writing with intent to save person from punishment) of the Pakistan Penal Code (PPC).
The judicial commission also called for initiating police reforms, particularly to address and modernise the investigation protocol.
It suggested forming a committee of “seasoned professionals” to “specifically address first response, crime scene handling, medico-legal dynamics, collection, safekeeping, and analysis of evidence, and recording the entirety of the investigation in written or digital form”.
While it proposed a three-month timeframe for the exercise, the commission said the Sindh government will make the final decision.
Another suggestion was to consider an increase in the investigation budget, with a protocol in place to monitor the fund’s use. The panel further suggested steps regarding training of investigators and enhancing the capacity of Crime Scene Units.
Panel formed to ensure implementation
The judicial panel’s primary mandate was to determine the facts and circumstances of the case; assess whether police and medico-legal investigations were impartial; identify professional negligence, misconduct, evidence manipulation, or cover-ups; review digital/forensic evidence; and recommend further investigation, forensic analysis, or legal/departmental action.
According to a handout issued by the Sindh chief minister’s spokesperson, the judicial inquiry report was presented in seven separate sealed envelopes.
It will be uploaded on the website of the provincial home department on Tuesday, while a copy will also be provided to the aggrieved family.
Further, CM Shah also constituted a three-member sub-committee to ensure the implementation of the report.
According to a notification issued by the Sindh government, the committee comprises Home Minister Ziaul Hassan Lanjar as convener, Local Government Minister Nasir Hussain Shah and Labour Minister Saeed Ghani.
The Sindh advocate general will provide legal assistance to the committee and the additional chief secretary of the Home department will provide secretarial support, the notification said.
The committee will oversee the implementation of the commission’s findings and will submit its recommendations to the Sindh chief minister “at the earliest”, and present them before the Cabinet in its next meeting, it added.
Senior Minister Sharjeel Inam Memon also took to X to announce that the report would be made public on Tuesday.
“The government of Sindh remains committed to transparency, accountability and ensuring that due process of law is upheld,” he said.
Last week, the commission handed over the sealed report to the provincial government after examining 49 witnesses during 15 hearings.
The inquiry report, along with associated documents, was handed over to the focal person of the provincial government and Home Department Additional Secretary Javed Ahmed Abro by the commission registrar, Abdul Majid, on the premises of the SHC.
After receiving the record, Abro told reporters that he would hand over the sealed report along with other records to the provincial government and it was the prerogative of the government to decide whether the inquiry report was to be brought into the public domain or otherwise.
In August, the provincial government formed the commission, which was tasked with making recommendations for further investigation and forensic analysis or legal/departmental action, and it was required to submit its findings and recommendations to the Sindh government within 30 days.
However, the commission had struggled to meet its deadline and sent an application last month to the Sindh government for an extension in its tenure till Oct 15. Therefore, the provincial cabinet granted an extension.
Besides examining 49 witnesses and available record, the commission had also sent questionnaires to Karachi police chief Azad Khan, head of current investigation team DIG Amir Farooqui and DIG East Farrukh Lanjar after dismissing an application by the aggrieved family to summon the senior police officers to testify before the commission.
The 25-year-old businessman and Institute of Business Administration graduate had gone missing on July 28 after leaving his home in PECHS and his body with gunshot wounds was found a day later in bushes in Gulistan-i-Jauhar’s locality.
Initially, the police built the case around suicide on the basis of the first autopsy, which indicated a bullet entry wound on the chest, and by pointing out business losses and money borrowed by the victim.
Police surgeon Dr Summaiya Syed had disputed the findings of the first post-mortem conducted by medico-legal officer Dr Osama Sheikh.
The second post-mortem report termed the findings of the first report “inconsistent” with suicide as the manner of Mir Raza’s death. It said the Exhumation Board was of the unanimous opinion that the death was caused by a gunshot wound to the back.
ISLAMABAD – Pakistan raised the alarm over what it describes as India’s increasingly aggressive nuclear posture, warning that the expansion of sea-based nuclear capabilities could push South Asia towards a potentially catastrophic conflict.
Lieutenant General (retd) Mazhar Jamil, an adviser to Pakistan’s National Command Authority (NCA) and former D.G of the Strategic Plans Division, questioned the credibility of India’s declared No First Use (NFU) nuclear policy, arguing that its evolving military capabilities warrant serious international scrutiny.
Addressing the 11th Track 1.5 workshop organised by the International Institute for Strategic Studies (IISS) and the Centre for International Strategic Studies in London, Jamil warned that developments involving India’s submarine-launched ballistic missiles could increase the risk of miscalculation during a military crisis.
Jamil argued that New Delhi’s continued efforts to strengthen its sea-based nuclear deterrent were inconsistent with the assurances conveyed by its NFU policy. He characterised the policy as a diplomatic façade, alleging that New Delhi’s actions pointed towards a more aggressive nuclear posture. His remarks have renewed attention on the nuclear rivalry between Pakistan and India, particularly following their intense military confrontation in May 2025.
Jamil cited assessments attributed to the Stockholm International Peace Research Institute (SIPRI) and other research sources, saying reports indicated that India had begun pairing nuclear warheads with submarine-launched ballistic missiles and conducting maritime patrols.
He warned that the combination of submarine-based nuclear weapons and limited advance notification of missile tests could complicate crisis management, increasing the possibility of misinterpretation and dangerous decisions during periods of heightened tension.
Submarine-launched nuclear weapons are particularly significant because they can operate away from established land-based installations, making it more difficult for rival states to assess their movements and intentions. Jamil argued that India’s development of longer-range missiles and acquisition of dual-use technologies were also affecting the strategic balance in South Asia.
Pakistan has repeatedly advocated a “No War Pact” with India, but continuing military competition between the two nuclear-armed neighbours has complicated efforts to establish lasting confidence-building measures.
While Jamil’s allegations reflect Pakistan’s security concerns, India’s nuclear doctrine and the operational role of its sea-based capabilities remain subjects of wider strategic debate.
Jamil urged the international community to reconsider the Nuclear Suppliers Group’s (NSG) 2008 exemption for India, which opened the way for international civilian nuclear trade despite India not being a signatory to the Nuclear Non-Proliferation Treaty (NPT). He argued that the exemption, coupled with assistance from international technology partners, had helped India expand its nuclear and missile programmes, raising questions about transparency, non-proliferation standards and regional security.
Jamil called for the waiver to be withdrawn, maintaining that India’s evolving strategic capabilities required a reassessment of the international arrangements governing nuclear cooperation.
The warning comes months after the most serious military confrontation between Pakistan and India in more than two decades, which brought the nuclear-armed neighbours into a dangerous cycle of strikes and retaliation.
ISLAMABAD – Pakistan and Qatar agreed to strengthen cooperation in internal security, signalling a renewed push to deepen bilateral coordination amid evolving regional challenges.
Federal Interior Minister Mohsin Naqvi and Qatar’s Interior Minister and Commander of the Internal Security Force, Sheikh Khalifa bin Hamad bin Khalifa Al Thani. The two officials held detailed discussions on expanding collaboration across various areas of internal security, with both sides agreeing to reinforce their partnership and broaden cooperation between their respective interior ministries.
Regional developments, peace and stability also featured prominently in the talks, as Pakistan and Qatar reaffirmed their commitment to closer coordination on matters of mutual interest.
The meeting concluded with an agreement to further strengthen the two countries’ security partnership, although no specific new agreements, operational measures or implementation timelines were announced in the provided statement.
Speaking during the meeting, Naqvi said Pakistan and Qatar were working together to promote peace and stability across the region, underscoring the importance Islamabad attaches to cooperation with Doha. Sheikh Khalifa, meanwhile, said Qatar placed great importance on its relations with Pakistan, reaffirming Doha’s commitment to maintaining strong bilateral ties.
RAWALPINDI – Green Shirts found themselves in trouble against England in second ODI of the ongoing tri-series at Rawalpindi Cricket Stadium on Tuesday, losing five wickets for 134 runs after 29 overs as the visitors tightened their grip on the contest.
England made early inroads into Pakistan’s batting line-up, dismissing several key players and leaving the hosts struggling to build a competitive total. Pakistan’s innings suffered setback when Fakhar Zaman was dismissed without scoring, while Saim Ayub managed only eight runs.
Star batter Babar Azam made 34 before losing his wicket, while Salman Ali Agha departed after scoring 16. With half the side back in the pavilion, Pakistan’s hopes of a strong recovery rested on the remaining batters, including Hasan Nawaz and Arafat Minhas. The team faced the difficult task of rebuilding the innings while increasing the scoring rate without risking further wickets.
Pakistan were scoring at approximately 4.7 runs per over at the time, leaving them under pressure to accelerate during the remaining overs. England’s live win predictor put their chances of victory at 79%, reflecting their advantage following Pakistan’s batting collapse.
Pakistan make changes after Sri Lanka Victory
Pakistan entered the match after defeating Sri Lanka in their opening fixture of the ODI tri-series. Shaheen Afridi captained the side, with Saad Baig named wicketkeeper as the hosts sought another win to strengthen their position in the tournament.
Pakistan
Saim Ayub, Fakhar Zaman, Babar Azam, Saad Baig (wicketkeeper), Hasan Nawaz, Salman Ali Agha, Arafat Minhas, Faheem Ashraf, Shaheen Afridi (captain), Haris Rauf and Naseem Shah.
England, meanwhile, were aiming to open their campaign with a victory and capitalise on their recent success against Pakistan.
England
Ben Duckett, Tom Banton, Joe Root, Harry Brook (captain), Jordan Cox (wicketkeeper), Sam Curran, Will Jacks, Jamie Overton, Gus Atkinson, Adil Rashid and Sonny Baker.
England have enjoyed the upper hand in their ODI rivalry with Pakistan, winning 57 of their 92 meetings. Pakistan have registered 32 victories, while three matches ended without a result. English side have also won their last four ODI encounters against Pakistan, with victories in Cardiff, Lord’s, Birmingham and Kolkata between 2021 and 2023.
Pakistan were therefore looking to break their losing streak against England while maintaining the momentum gained from their opening victory over Sri Lanka.
England, who had won four of their previous five matches, were seeking to continue their strong run and make a winning start to their tri-series campaign.
ISLAMABAD – Chief of Defence Forces and Chief of Army Staff Field Marshal Asim Munir landed in Tehran on Tuesday, Iranian state media said.
Field Marshal embarked on visit along with Deputy Prime Minister Ishaq Dar to discuss ways to strengthen bilateral relations and exchange views on the latest regional developments.
The visit comes as trade through key Pakistan-Iran border crossings has remained suspended for four days, disrupting commercial movement through Balochistan and leaving hundreds of freight containers stranded on both sides of the border.
According to IRNA, discussions during Asim Munir’s expected visit will focus on bilateral relations and the evolving regional situation. The visit could provide an opportunity for Pakistani and Iranian officials to discuss issues affecting cooperation between the neighbouring countries, although no detailed agenda has been officially announced.
Pakistan is also seeking to facilitate renewed US-Iran negotiations as Field Marshal Asim Munir’s reported Tehran visit coincides with regional tensions, maritime security concerns and uncertainty over a possible settlement.
Pakistan is stepping up diplomatic efforts to ease tensions between Washington and Tehran, with Field Marshal Asim Munir’s reported visit to Iran on October 20 drawing attention to Islamabad’s role in efforts to revive negotiations.
Pakistan has used its diplomatic channels with both countries to relay messages, encourage dialogue and explore pathways towards de-escalation. Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif, Foreign Minister Ishaq Dar and Munir have featured in these efforts.
CDF Asim Munir’s upcoming visit follows earlier engagement with Iranian officials in August, when Pakistan sought to help reduce tensions and bring the two sides closer to negotiations. Reuters also reported that US President Donald Trump had spoken with Munir before that trip, citing Pakistani sources.
The diplomatic push comes amid disagreements over Iran’s nuclear programme, sanctions, regional security and the Strait of Hormuz, a crucial route for global energy shipments. Islamabad has also engaged with regional partners, including Qatar and Oman, as part of broader efforts to contain the crisis.
Adviser to the Prime Minister on Political Affairs Rana Sanaullah on Tuesday said the federal government was ready to invite all political parties and build consensus on counterterrorism.
Speaking in the Senate, the PML-N leader also urged the opposition to “set other demands aside”.
The PM’s aide’s remarks come after the Centre imposed emergency and governor’s rule in KP on October 11, citing the PTI-led provincial government’s “deliberate disengagement” from the fight against terrorism. The decisions were also endorsed by the Parliament last week amid protests by the opposition.
“Even now, if all parties [..] can agree to sit down to discuss this issue, then Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif is willing to invite them and find a way forward (on counterterrorism) or how operations can be supported by the entire nation,” Sanaullah said, urging political parties to put other demands aside and “stand united” in tackling terrorism.
Sanaullah went on to criticise National Assembly Opposition Leader Mehmood Khan Achakzai.
“He became the leader of the opposition after the speaker signed off on his appointment; however, [..] he does not accept the speaker’s authority and is not even ready to meet the prime minister and has even refused to sit in the speaker’s chambers with the PM,” Sanaullah said.
Sanaullah then turned his attention to the rise in terrorism in the country, expressing sorrow at the martyrdom of an army officer a day earlier.
Addressing the opposition, he said, “You are running propaganda against the head of this institution and [..] making below-the-belt remarks.”
The PML-N senator also assailed the members of the now non-functional PTI-led KP government for not attending apex committee meetings.
“In 11 months, there was one apex committee meeting in which the KP CM was in attendance, and the way he was brought there, Interior Minister Mohsin Naqvi already spoke about it,” Sanaullah said.
Recalling the federal government’s talks with the PTI earlier this month, Sanaullah said: “During the talks, we agreed on constituting a political committee comprising members from both sides; however, [..] the talks broke down on one single point — the PTI fulfilling its responsibilities and supporting the federal government in counterterrorism efforts.”
Chaudhry reiterates invitation to opposition
Federal Minister for Parliamentary Affairs Tariq Fazal Chaudhry also invited opposition parties to develop a consensus against terrorism, saying Pakistan’s peace and the future of its children depended on a united stance against the menace.
“I extended an invitation yesterday, and today I am once again inviting all opposition parties to come forward and build a consensus against terrorism,” he said while speaking to the media.
“Why can we not develop a consensus, at least on this issue?” he asked.
Chaudhry said political differences should not be allowed to compromise the national interest, adding that peace and prosperity required a collective effort.
The minister said controlling terrorism in KP was practically impossible without the provincial government’s full cooperation with federal institutions, the Pakistan Army and security agencies.
He said the provincial government had refused to cooperate with the federal government on its Afghanistan policy, particularly efforts to prevent cross-border infiltration.
“This was the only reason why the emergency was imposed,” he said, referring to the decision concerning the administration of KP.
Criticising the PTI, Chaudhry regretted that the party was not prepared to condemn terrorism.
“One is that we have to rid Pakistan of terrorism once and for all, and the second is the position of your party, which was in power in KP. The PTI is not even prepared to condemn terrorism,” he said.
He said networks linked to terrorists, smuggling operations and influential people patronising them had contributed to the persistence of terrorism in the province.
However, Chaudhry said the provincial government was now extending full cooperation and expressed hope that results would become visible soon. He added that counterterrorism operations would continue until the menace was eliminated.
Rejecting the impression that the federal government’s move concerning KP was driven by a power struggle, he said the objective was to restore peace.
“This is not a power game; it is a peace game,” he said, adding that advisory councils comprising tribal elders had been established in 12 districts to empower local communities and facilitate intelligence-based operations in consultation with them.
Drawing a comparison with Balochistan, Chaudhry said the provincial administration and Chief Minister Sarfraz Bugti were working alongside law enforcement agencies and federal institutions to combat terrorism.
He added that the Balochistan government had not refused to cooperate with the federal government, adding that this was the difference between the two provinces.
In the days preceding the imposition of governor’s rule in KP, political tensions between the Centre and the opposition — including the PTI, which was in power in KP — had remained high since jailed former prime minister Imran Khan’s party announced a protest march to Islamabad to demand his release.
Intense negotiations between the two sides a week before the imposition of governor’s rule had failed to yield any results, with counterterrorism policy being one of the main reasons behind the breakdown of their talks.
The PTI said it was being left out of security decisions concerning KP, which the Centre denied. It also called for reviewing the counterterrorism policy, while the latter criticised the KP government’s efforts to combat terrorism in the province and objected to its stance on dialogue with the Afghan Taliban.
Soon after, the Centre also authorised the deployment of Pakistan Army troops and assets in aid of civil power in KP.
Federal ministers have also alleged that the PTI-led government in KP had a “nexus” with terrorist groups, stating that the province’s security situation necessitated the imposition of emergency there.
LAHORE — Pump.fun, the Solana-based launchpad behind millions of meme coins, is pushing hard on its mobile app, and its newest features turn ordinary users into public stock-tippers of sorts. Through “callouts”, any user can alert all their followers to a coin with a push notification, and the platform now pays callers in USDC for doing it.
The push has a clear target. Co-founder Alon Cohen has said the company wants 10 million app users, and on October 16 it announced a new referral programme to get there. For Pakistan, where crypto has only just gained a legal framework, the app raises an obvious question: how do ordinary investors use it without getting burned?
What the app does
The app, oniOS and Android, works much like the Pump.fun website: users can create a token for free and trade coins from their phone. Sign-up is by email or Google, and the app creates a Solana wallet for the user automatically. Pump.fun earns a fee on every trade.
Callouts
Launched in January 2026, a callout sends a push notification about a specific coin to everyone who follows you. Cohen has warned users to follow only his verified account, “alonalon”, because impersonators are common.
Callout Rewards
Introduced on August 13 with a budget of about $15 million, this pays callers daily in USDC. Payouts were first based on the trading volume a callout drove.
New Rules
On October 4, Pump.fun cut returns for users who post many callouts a day, to curb spam. From the October 10 payout, rewards are tied to whether followers actually profit, and low-cap coin callouts earn less.
Fees
The platform charges a 0.45% fee per trade. Protocol, creator and liquidity charges can also apply depending on the trade route.
Pump.fun has not published how it measures a “successful” callout, and says it can change the formula without notice.
How to use it more carefully
For the unversed, a caller is paid when you trade on their tip. That does not make every callout bad, but it means a callout is a promotion, not independent advice.
1. Treat callouts as leads, not verdicts. Look at a caller’s past calls and how those coins performed weeks later, not just on the day.
2. Check who holds the coin. If a handful of wallets, especially the creator’s, own a large share, they can sell into your buy and crash the price.
3. Watch liquidity. Thinly traded coins can be easy to buy and very hard to sell without a large loss.
4. Beware of copycats. Fake tokens and impersonator accounts are routine; Pump.fun’s own X account was hacked in February 2025 to promote fake coins. Verify the exact contract address.
5. Mind the fees. Small, frequent trades lose a meaningful share to fees and slippage.
6. Size it as a lottery ticket. Only put in money you can afford to lose entirely, and never borrow to trade.
7. Secure the wallet. Back up recovery details offline and never share them with anyone claiming to be support.
Referral Offer
Under the programme announced on October 16, a user who refers a new trader gets $50 once that person deposits $50 and trades through the app. The new user gets roughly a 10% discount on trading fees. A temporary 4x rewards boost runs alongside it.
Disclosure: The author of this article has a Pump.fun referral code and will receive a reward if readers sign up using it. Readers who wish to use it can enter “WildSassyCut”.
Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Ishaq Dar on Tuesday encouraged members of the Shanghai Cooperation Organisation (SCO) to use national currencies for “mutual settlement” and establish other financial mechanisms to “offset international financial shocks”.
He made the remarks while addressing the SCO Council of Heads of Government (CHG) meeting in Tajikistan’s capital Dushanbe, where he arrived a day earlier.
The SCO comprises 10 member states, namely Pakistan, China, India, Iran, Russia, Kyrgyzstan, Belarus, Kazakhstan, Tajikistan and Uzbekistan. The two observer states are Afghanistan and Mongolia. The CHG is the SCO’s second-highest decision-making body and provides guidance on economic, financial, trade, connectivity and socio-economic cooperation, as well as the organisation’s budgetary matters.
Addressing the SCO meeting, Dar highlighted the “need to accelerate efforts to promote the use of national currencies for mutual settlement”, as well as to establish the SCO Development Bank, SCO Development Fund and SCO Investment Fund.
“Such tools are measures which will advance development initiatives and help the SCO region to offset international financial shocks,” the former finance minister noted.
Dar reiterated his call to accelerate local currency settlements in a later address to an expanded-format session of the meeting.
Two members of the SCO, Russia and Iran, face Western sanctions restricting their access to international markets and stifling their economic growth.
In the joint communiqué for the Pakistan-chaired 2024 CHG meeting, SCO member states had reaffirmed the need for consistent implementation of a roadmap on gradual increase in the share of national currencies in mutual settlements.
It underlined the need to protect and promote the World Trade Organisation’s multilateral trade system for inclusive global growth and reduce reliance on the American currency for international trade transactions.
At that summit, PM Shehbaz Sharif had noted “growing consensus among the member states on the use of mutual currencies for settlements” and said such a transition would “shield us from global financial disruptions”.
Speaking in Dushanbe, Dar highlighted that the China-Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC) offered “every SCO partner a compelling opportunity to participate in and accelerate our shared journey towards comprehensive economic integration”.
“For our region to achieve seamless economic integration, targeted investment in core sectors, most notably in energy and transport, is vital,” he stressed.
The foreign minister criticised “protectionist policies and unilateral coercive measures”, saying they contradicted the principles of international law, “suppress economic growth, block technological progress and increase inequality”.
“Therefore, reform of the global financial architecture and trade regimes is essential for achieving equitable global development,” the deputy PM declared.
He said Pakistan strongly advocated for “expanding investments into high-potential industries, including agriculture, mining and minerals, and information technology, to build a resilient and interconnected economic future”.
He expressed Pakistan’s “belief that artificial intelligence, digital transformation, innovation, energy cooperation and international information security should become important pillars of future cooperation within the SCO”.
Dar then recalled the priority areas identified by PM Shehbaz for the SCO Council of Heads of State (CHS) summit that Islamabad is set to host in 2027.
These comprised peace, security and mutual trust; regional connectivity and trade; innovation, AI and digital transformation; climate resilience and sustainable energy; and people-to-people exchanges.
He emphasised that strategic investment in transport and energy infrastructure was not merely beneficial but “absolutely imperative for true regional economic integration”.
At the outset of his speech, Dar extended his appreciation to the Tajik government and people for their “very warm and generous hospitality”.
“For the past 25 years, the SCO has remained anchored in the Shanghai spirit of mutual trust and respect for diversity and expanded its mandate to encompass trade, infrastructure, culture and innovation,” he noted.
Dar went on to state that Pakistan’s journey within the SCO highlighted its commitment to the Shanghai spirit, recalling that the country’s chairmanship of SCO’s Regional Anti-Terrorist Structure (SCO-RATS) and the SCO Working Group on Poverty Alleviation.
He said Pakistan intended to highlight the role of small and medium enterprises in reducing poverty.
During his speech at the CHG summit, DPM Dar also raised the issue of cross-border terrorism emanating from Afghanistan.
Noting that sustainable economic development cannot be guaranteed without durable peace and security in the region, he said ensuring stability in Afghanistan was “imperative” for safeguarding regional peace.
“Pakistan continues to be desirous of a peaceful, stable, regionally integrated and prosperous Afghanistan, which is at peace with itself and its neighbours.”
The deputy premier pointed out that Islamabad had only one expectation from the “Afghan Taliban regime: that Afghan territory should not be used for terrorism against Pakistan and the world”.
He reaffirmed Pakistan’s commitment to a peaceful and stable neighbourhood as an essential foundation for regional development and prosperity.
Islamabad has repeatedly urged the Taliban administration in Kabul to dismantle terrorist sanctuaries on Afghan soil, particularly those linked to the banned Tehreek-i-Taliban Pakistan, that are used for attacks in Pakistan. Officials say those appeals have gone unheeded.
Concluding his address, Dar congratulated Tajikistan and the heads of SCO’s permanent bodies on the successful completion of the CHG meeting, and congratulated Uzbekistan for taking over the chair. He also commended the SCO national coordinators for their help in finalising documents.
He stated: “The fundamental strength of the SCO is anchored not only in our deeply intertwined histories, but more importantly, in the resilient, shared future that we collectively choose to forge.
“Pakistan stands resolute in its commitment to serve as an active architect of this shared destiny, and to shape the next decade of Eurasian connectivity and economic prosperity.”
Recommendations to deepen intra-SCO cooperation
Addressing an expanded-format session of the CHG meeting later, Dar reaffirmed Pakistan’s commitment to regional harmony, trade, transit connectivity and economic integration as “a natural bridge connecting South Asia, Central Asia, and Eurasia”.
“Pakistan firmly believes that dialogue and diplomacy offer the most effective path to resolving regional tensions,” he said, highlighting the country’s efforts for de-escalation in the Middle East.
To this effect, Pakistan remains engaged in mediation efforts between the US and Iran, he added.
“We will continue to support all efforts for dialogue and peaceful resolution of disputes for lasting peace and stability,” the foreign minister said.
“Our diplomatic strategy is guided by our firm belief that regional challenges require collective, cooperative, and sustainable multilateral solutions.”
He went on to highlight that SCO had transformed from a regional confidence-building platform into a premier transcontinental organisation representing over 40 per cent of humanity.
Dar further highlighted that the intra-SCO trade had expanded significantly, proving that cooperative multilateralism can effectively drive stability and sustainable development across our shared continent.
“The future prospects of the SCO remain bright,” the deputy premier remarked, noting that the region was situated at the crossroads of major international trade corridors.
By leveraging our vast natural resources, technological advancements, and vibrant human capital, the SCO could lead digital transformation, industrial growth, and sustainable economic development across Eurasia, he emphasised.
To realise this vision, the foreign minister also proposed recommendations to deepen economic cooperation among SCO countries and expand international partnerships.
Firstly, Dar called for empowering the SCO Chambers of Commerce and Business Council by establishing direct business-to-business links and organising joint trade expos. He also urged member states to streamline customs procedures to support SMEs.
Secondly, he proposed the strengthening of the SCO Interbank Consortium (IBC).
“We must accelerate local currency settlements and enhance the SCO Interbank Consortium framework to mitigate external financial risks, harmonise cross-border payment systems, and facilitate seamless trade financing,” he said.
Pending the establishment of the SCO Development Bank, the IBC can play a more active role in financing infrastructure upgrades, Dar added.
He underlined that Habib Bank Limited (HBL), the current chair of the IBC, can help advance this agenda through close coordination with fellow members.
At last, the foreign minister recommended expanding international partnerships.
“The SCO should actively expand structured partnerships with international organisations including the United Nations, Asean, the Economic Cooperation Organisation (ECO), and other international and regional financial institutions, to reinforce an open, rules-based, and inclusive regional order,” Dar underscored.
He added: “Pakistan recommends that the SCO adopt a forward-looking strategy focused on joint technological innovation, climate resilience, energy security and secure supply chains.
“We must also operationalise Eurasian energy and transport corridors while deepening people-to-people ties, cultural exchanges, and educational partnerships.”
Concluding his speech, Dar said Pakistan looked forward to welcoming the heads of state at the SCO CHS summit in Islamabad in August 2027.
“Pakistan remains steadfast in its resolve to foster a peaceful, interconnected, and prosperous SCO community. Together, let us forge a shared future of enduring prosperity for all our people,” he resolved.
Dar meets Tajik top leadership
Ahead of the SCO meeting, DPM Dar called on Tajik President Emomali Rahmon, along with other heads of delegations.
“President Rahmon welcomed the leaders and emphasised the importance of strengthening regional economic cooperation under the SCO to promote connectivity, stability and shared prosperity,” the Foreign Office (FO) said.
He, along with other delegates, was then welcomed by PM Qohir Rasulzoda.
Later in the day, Dar met with Tajikistan’s FM Sirojiddin Muhriddin on the sidelines of the meeting.
The two ministers “reaffirmed the longstanding brotherly ties between Pakistan and Tajikistan, rooted in shared history, culture and faith”, FO said.
They underscored the need to further expand trade and economic cooperation, enhance regional connectivity and strengthen cooperation in energy, security and people-to-people exchanges.
The foreign ministers also exchanged views on regional and global developments and underscored the importance of continued coordination at regional and multilateral forums to advance shared goals of peace and prosperity, FO added.
The deputy premier then returned to Islamabad in the evening after concluding his “productive visit”, FO said.
During his visit, Dar also held bilateral meetings with his counterparts from SCO member states on the sidelines of the SCO moot, according to FO.
On Monday, Dar held a meeting with the Tajik premier. He also met with China’s PM Li Qiang and Mongolia’s First DPM Jadambyn Enkhbayar on the sidelines of a banquet dinner hosted for the delegates.
MULTAN – A 15-year-old orphan allegedly fleeing abuse was crushed by a car in Multan, and the suspect faced another shocking scene when lawyers assaulted him during his court appearance on Tuesday.
The suspect was held on the same day and was presented in court today where lawyers allegedly beat suspect accused of running over 15-year-old boy, raising fresh questions about the rule of law and the growing tendency to take justice into one’s own hands. The incident has triggered wider concerns about mob justice, particularly when violence erupts inside or around the very institutions responsible for upholding the law.
ملتان میں گاڑی سے بچے جو قتل کرنے والے ملزم کو عدالت میں پیش کردیا گیا وکلاء نے خوب تشدد کا نشانہ بنایا https://t.co/tnibkcjtcl
The tragedy unfolded at around 5:40 pm on October 19 in the Royal Orchard area of Multan, in southern Punjab. A CCTV camera installed at a nearby house captured the horrifying sequence of events.
The footage shows the teenager apparently attempting to escape from people inside a car. Moments later, the vehicle accelerates towards him and strikes him, crushing him against the gate of a nearby house.
The impact was so powerful that it jolted the gate. The driver then reverses the vehicle a short distance before both car doors open and two men step out. One of the men is seen grabbing the boy by his arms and laying him in front of a house’s entrance. The teenager appears motionless, while his white shalwar kameez is visibly stained with blood.
Local residents and eyewitnesses subsequently approach the men and question them about the incident. Police have registered a murder case against both suspects seen in the footage. One has been arrested, while the other remains at large.
FIR registered at the DHA Police Station identifies the deceased as Waseem Abbas, aged between 15 and 16. According to the police report, officers were patrolling the Royal Orchard area when a man approached them and identified Waseem as his maternal cousin. He told police that the teenager worked for the suspects as an electrician.
The complainant alleged that the suspects had subjected Waseem to violence and were intent on killing him. According to the FIR, the boy was trying to escape their alleged abuse when he ran towards an adjoining street, while the suspects pursued him in a car.
FIR further alleges that the suspects deliberately drove the vehicle over Waseem, causing his head to strike a pillar of a residential gate and leaving him fatally injured at the scene.
The arrested suspect, who was driving the car, has denied intentionally killing Waseem, according to police. He claimed that he was attempting to stop the teenager by positioning the vehicle in front of him as he ran away. The suspect alleged that the car slipped near the house and struck the boy. He also claimed that Waseem had attempted to flee from work and had run away on previous occasions.
Police have taken the vehicle into custody as evidence. According to the FIR, eyewitnesses told investigators that the suspects tried to leave after the incident but abandoned the car when it failed to start. Local residents caught one of the men, while the other escaped.
Multan City Police Officer Akhtar Farooq confirmed that the arrested driver was presented before a court on Tuesday, which granted police four days of physical remand. Raids are underway to apprehend the second suspect.
KARACHI – After staying unchanged on Monday, Gold prices in Pakistan moved down on October 20 amid decline in the international bullion market.
October 20 Gold price of 24-karat gold decreased to Rs435,436 per tola. The rate for 10 grams of gold also dropped by Rs3,086 to Rs373,316. The latest decline came after gold prices remained unchanged on Monday, when one tola was traded at Rs439,036 in the local market.
In the international market, gold prices fell by $36 to reach $4,129 per ounce, reflecting the downward trend seen in Pakistan’s bullion market. The decline in global rates was accompanied by a significant reduction in domestic gold prices, bringing the per-tola rate below Rs436,000.
Meanwhile, silver prices remained stable, with one tola continuing to sell at Rs6,234 in Pakistan.
ISLAMABAD — Islamabad police officers posing as law enforcers stormed a home occupied by two Chinese nationals, held them at gunpoint and looted Rs2 million in cash during a late-night raid in Sector F-7/1.
The four serving officer of Islamabad Police were arrested after incident occurred at Sector F-7/1, at around 2:20am on October 18, as per FIR registered at Kohsar Police Station.
The complainant, Ahsan Nawaz, a security guard employed by a company, told Islamabad police that he and a driver were sleeping in the backyard quarters when a young man wearing a police uniform woke them up and took them outside. He said a black double-cabin vehicle with a flashing police light was waiting outside. Three men in police uniforms, two of them armed, allegedly entered the property, while another man wearing shalwar kameez and a waistcoat drove the vehicle through the gate.
The suspects allegedly snatched the complainant’s mobile phone at gunpoint before entering the main house through a window. FIR said the complainant, the driver and the two Chinese residents were held hostage at gunpoint in the drawing room while the suspects robbed the Chinese nationals of Rs2 million in cash. The stolen property listed in the FIR includes the cash and a mobile handset valued at Rs15,000.
The complainant expressed suspicion that the night-shift security guard, colluded with the suspects and opened the main gate to facilitate their entry. According to the FIR, the complainant worked the day shift from 8am to 8pm while Ahmed Ali was assigned to duty from 8pm until 8am the following morning.
The case was registered under Section 395 PPC, and the station house officer was informed as the investigation began. FIR records the location as House No. 2A, Street 35, Sector F-7/1, approximately two kilometres west of Kohsar Police Station.
The incident adds to concerns over a reported series of residential robberies targeting Chinese nationals in Islamabad. It has been described in earlier coverage as the fourth such dacoity since August 29, 2026.
That case raised questions about protection arrangements, with reports indicating that the Special Protection Unit responsible for Chinese nationals’ security had not been deployed at the residence.
Islamabad has also faced broader concerns over robberies, dacoities, snatching incidents, burglaries and thefts during 2026. Police figures cited in earlier reports indicated thousands of reported crimes during the first nine months of the year, with losses involving cash and valuables running into billions of rupees.
ISLAMABAD – Israeli Finance Minister Bezalel Smotrich called for strengthening Israel’s alliance with Greece and Cyprus while referring to Pakistan, Türkiye and other countries as part of a grouping opposed to Israel.
The remarks came during an interview Smotrich gave to Israeli Telegram channel and its clips went viral, getting attention in Pakistan and Türkiye over his reference to an alliance involving the two countries along with Saudi Arabia.
Smotrich said Israel should strengthen the Hellenic alliance against what he described as the alliance of Pakistan, Türkiye and countries opposed to Israel. The remarks come amid growing attention to the Mecca Joint Defence Agreement, signed by Pakistan, Türkiye and Saudi Arabia on August 7, 2026, which infact is defensive in nature.
Israeli Finance Minister Bezalel Smotrich:
We can and should strengthen the Hellenic alliance against the alliance of Pakistan, Türkiye and the countries that oppose us. https://t.co/DEzlld07r0
The pact provides framework for closer military ties, joint exercises, intelligence sharing and collaboration in defence production. Its collective-defence principle broadly establishes that an armed attack against one participating country would be treated as an attack against all.
Although Pakistan and other participating countries touted agreement as defensive and not directed against any particular state, its emergence has added a new dimension to regional security discussions.
Smotrich’s comments suggest that he views closer cooperation between Israel and its Greek partners as important amid these changing alignments. Saudi Arabia’s participation also adds diplomatic complexity, as discussions about potential normalisation between Riyadh and Tel Aviv continue alongside the kingdom’s defence cooperation with Pakistan and Türkiye.
Hellenic alliance generally refers to the strategic partnership between Israel, Greece and Cyprus, which has developed through military coordination, joint exercises, energy projects and wider regional security cooperation. The partnership has partly evolved against the backdrop of longstanding tensions involving Türkiye in the Eastern Mediterranean.
Defence cooperation reportedly get a further boost in 2026 through Greece’s planned air-defence procurement programme, known as Achilles Shield, valued at around €3 billion.
Smotrich’s call to strengthen this partnership comes as Israel assesses regional military developments and seeks to reinforce its own defence capabilities. In other part of the interview, he addressed Türkiye’s military strength, including its expanding naval capabilities.
Smotrich described the Turkish navy as enormous and hinted that its capabilities required careful assessment. He also discussed the need for Israel to remain capable of sustaining prolonged military conflicts independently rather than relying excessively on outside support.
The reported remarks show broader Israeli concerns about regional military balances, Türkiye’s growing strategic influence and the implications of closer defence cooperation among countries whose interests may conflict with those of Israel.
Smotrich also discussed ties between US President Donald Trump and Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdoğan, saying that developments in Washington-Ankara ties form part of the wider strategic picture.
He said normalisation with Saudi Arabia could and should be pursued. However, he has maintained a hardline position on Palestinian statehood and has opposed concessions that could require Israel to accept a Palestinian state. Saudi Arabia’s participation in the Pakistan-Türkiye defence arrangement makes the issue particularly important, although the kingdom’s membership does not, by itself, establish that the agreement is directed against Tel Aviv.
LAHORE – A major tax investigation puts Faisalabad Electric Supply Company (FESCO) CEO Engineer Muhammad Aamir and his three sons under FBR’s scrutiny, as the authority lodge a money-laundering case over alleged tax evasion worth Rs329.65 million.
The case was registered by FBR’s Directorate of Intelligence and Investigation, Inland Revenue, at complaint filed by Inland Revenue Inspector Muhammad Usman. The allegations centre on declaration and subsequent revision of family assets, with investigators reportedly examining discrepancies in wealth declarations dating back to 2014.
The case names Muhammad Amir and his three sons, Muhammad Hadi, Muhammad Saad and Muhammad Ibrahim. However, the allegations have yet to be shared in detail in court.
Assets initially declared at Rs3.5 million in 2014 were valued at Rs730 million during tax year 2025–26. The difference between the two reported figures amounts to Rs726.5 million, or Rs72.65 crore. The reported revision becomes key point of the serious money laundering allegations, although the available information does not fully explain the circumstances behind the change or provide the underlying tax documents.
FBR would need to establish how the assets were acquired, whether the declarations complied with applicable tax laws and how the alleged tax liability was calculated.
Some reports also claim that FESCO CEO’s sons received gifts worth a combined Rs46.36 crore. The unverified breakdown is said to be of Rs14.44 crore in gifts to Muhammad Hadi in 2025 and another Rs21 crore in 2026. Muhammad Saad is reportedly associated with gifts worth Rs6.92 crore, while Muhammad Ibrahim is said to have received Rs4 crore. These figures add up to Rs46.36 crore.
Who is FESCO CEO Muhammad Aamir?
Aamir worked in FESCO since mid 90s and took charge as the company’s chief executive in December 2023. Before his appointment, he served as Director General of the company’s MIRAD division.
His professional experience has included work related to electricity distribution, operational management, planning and customer services.
ISLAMABAD – Maldives President Dr Mohamed Muizzu arrived in Islamabad on a 3-day official visit, with focus on fresh trade, investment and defence cooperation as Pakistan and the Maldives mark 60 years of diplomatic ties.
This is first visit by Maldivian president to Pakistan in 11 years and comes as both countries look to strengthen longstanding ties through expanded economic and strategic engagement.
President Asif Ali Zardari is scheduled to meet Muizzu and host a state banquet in his honour, while Prime Minister Shehbaz will hold restricted and delegation-level talks with the visiting leader.
The discussions will cover the full spectrum of bilateral relations, with both sides expected to explore new opportunities in trade, investment, healthcare, education, tourism, agriculture, defence, maritime security and climate change. Two sides will also exchange views on regional and international developments of mutual interest, while people-to-people exchanges are expected to remain part of the broader cooperation agenda.
A key highlight of the visit will be the Pakistan-Maldives Business Forum, which aims to bring the two countries’ business communities together to identify investment opportunities, develop commercial partnerships and boost bilateral trade.
Several agreements and memorandums of understanding (MoUs) covering different areas of cooperation are also expected to be signed during Muizzu’s stay, potentially providing fresh momentum to bilateral engagement.
The diplomatic push comes as Pakistan and the Maldives commemorate the 60th anniversary of relations established in 1966, offering an opportunity to broaden cooperation beyond traditional diplomatic ties.
A day before, Maldivian delegation led by Foreign Minister Iruthisham Adam arrived in Islamabad ahead of the president. The delegation includes cabinet ministers and senior government officials. The visiting officials were received at the airport by Pakistan’s Foreign Office spokesperson, the director general for South Asia and SAARC, the Maldivian high commissioner to Pakistan and Pakistan’s high commissioner to the Maldives.
Maldives President Dr Mohamed Muizzu arrived in Islamabad on Tuesday on a three-day visit to Pakistan, according to a statement from his office.
Muizzu is visiting Pakistan at the invitation of Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif. The visit marks the first by a Maldivian president to Pakistan in 11 years, and comes as the two countries celebrate the 60th anniversary of the establishment of diplomatic relations in 1966.
According to the statement, the Maldivian president and first lady were accorded a 21-gun salute upon their arrival at Islamabad International Airport.
“The president will be accorded an official welcome tomorrow at Prime Minister House, the official residence of the prime minister of Pakistan,” it added.
Later, Muizzu took to X and expressed appreciation for the government and “brotherly people” of Pakistan for their warmth and ceremonial welcome on his first state visit to the country.
“I look forward to fruitful engagements that will further deepen our bilateral relations, strengthen our partnership, and advance the shared aspirations of our two nations,” he wrote.
An earlier statement issued by the Foreign Office (FO) said Muizzu will meet President Asif Ali Zardari, who will host a state banquet in his honour.
He will also hold “restricted and delegation-level” talks with PM Shehbaz, the FO said.
During the talks, the two leaders will “review the entire spectrum of bilateral relations and explore avenues for further strengthening cooperation in trade, investment, health, education, tourism, agriculture, defence, maritime security, climate change and people-to-people exchanges”.
They will also exchange views on regional and international developments of mutual interest, according to the FO.
A Pakistan-Maldives Business Forum will also be held during the visit to promote interaction between the two countries’ business communities and explore opportunities for trade and investment.
“A number of agreements and memorandums of understanding (MoUs) covering diverse areas of bilateral cooperation are expected to be signed during the visit,” the statement added.
Meanwhile, the Maldivian delegation, led by Foreign Minister Iruthisham Adam and comprising cabinet ministers and senior officials, arrived in Islamabad earlier on Tuesday ahead of President Muizzu’s arrival, the Foreign Office (FO) said in a statement.
The delegation was received at the airport by the FO spokesperson, Director General (South Asia and Saarc), the Maldivian high commissioner to Pakistan and the Pakistani high commissioner to the Maldives.
In 2015, former Maldivian president Abdulla Yameen Abdul Gayoom undertook a two-day state visit to Pakistan on May 6-7 at the invitation of then-premier Nawaz Sharif.
Interior Minister Mohsin Naqvi and his Qatari counterpart, Sheikh Khalifa bin Hamad bin Khalifa Al Thani, have agreed to strengthen bilateral cooperation in internal security, according to a statement issued by the Interior Ministry on Tuesday.
The two met in Doha and held a detailed exchange of views on enhancing cooperation in internal security, the statement said.
They also discussed the current regional situation and matters relating to peace and stability.
“The meeting reaffirmed the commitment to strengthening bilateral cooperation between the two interior ministries,” the statement said, adding that a decision was made to strengthen mutual cooperation and partnership in internal security.
The meeting came a day after Naqvi addressed the 8th Global Security Forum in Doha, where he said Pakistan and Qatar had worked together to promote regional peace and stability.
Praising Qatar’s role in the peace efforts, Naqvi said the two countries’ aim was to “stop further conflict and to save innocent lives”.
“In the diplomacy of our time, when others chose sides, Qatar chose to keep talking. Pakistan has seen this closely because we have worked beside you,” he said.
Naqvi last met Al Thani on July 28 in Doha, where the two discussed security cooperation and ways to further strengthen bilateral relations in the security sector.
The government on Monday cut the price of petrol by Rs5.16 per litre and that of high-speed diesel (HSD) by Rs7.69.
Following the revision, petrol will retail at Rs381.14 per litre while HSD will cost Rs389.27 per litre. The government continues to levy Rs114 per litre in taxes and duties on petrol and Rs100 per litre on diesel.
According to the Petroleum Division’s notification, the new prices are applicable for Oct 20 (Tuesday).
The price of HSD has come down from a peak of Rs520.35 recorded on April 3. Its price had started rising from Rs281 per litre after the US-Iran war broke out on February 28.
Meanwhile, the government has reintroduced a raft of austerity measures in response to rising fuel prices amid the ongoing Middle East conflict. Under these measures, markets are required to close by 9pm and fuel allocations for official vehicles has been cut by 50 per cent for three months.
On September 13, Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif also announced a “relief scheme” for users of motorcycles, autos and vehicles of up to 800cc to “alleviate the burden” of rising global oil prices.
Previously, on July 17, Petroleum Minister Ali Pervaiz Malik announced that fuel prices would now be fixed on a daily basis due to fluctuations in international market prices following renewed hostilities between Iran and the US.
Prior to this, the government had been announcing weekly revisions to fuel prices since early March, alongside measures for the conservation of fuel amid possible oil supply disruptions due to the ongoing conflict in the Middle East. The federal government in April also announced targeted relief measures to provide subsidised fuel.
The petroleum minister stated that the cabinet and the prime minister had decided to give the Oil and Gas Regulatory Authority (Ogra) the responsibility of deciding fuel prices on a daily basis based on international market trends.
Petrol is mainly used in private transport, small vehicles, rickshaws and two-wheelers, and changes in its price affect the middle and lower-middle classes.
Similarly, changes in diesel prices also impact the public at large, as it is mainly used in the heavy transport sector, power plants and large generators.
Petrol and high-speed diesel (HSD) are the major revenue earners, with monthly sales of about 700,000 to 800,000 tonnes, compared to just 10,000 tonnes of monthly demand for kerosene.
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