Author: News Desk

  • Bullet-riddled bodies of three transgender persons found in Karachi

    Bullet-riddled bodies of three transgender persons found in Karachi

    The remains of three transgender individuals were found in bushes near the Nagori Cooperative Housing Society, adjacent to the M-9 Motorway, in Karachi. Their identities were later confirmed through fingerprint analysis.

    Reports quoted authorities as saying that the victims had been shot, with two receiving gunshot wounds to the chest, and the third to the head. According to Malir SSP Abdul Khaliq Pirzada, evidence collected from the scene suggests the shootings occurred at that specific location.

    Two bodies were located together while the third was found a short distance away, indicating that one might have attempted to escape.

    The condition of the bodies suggests they had been killed only hours ago, though the exact time of death will be established by a medical legal officer.

    Investigators have retrieved two 9mm shell casings, a flashlight, tissue rolls and other items from the crime scene. The bullet casings will be analysed to determine if one or more firearms were involved.

    SSP Pirzada said there were no surveillance cameras in the area but they were reviewing footage from nearby locations. He also said that there was evidence suggesting the victims had visited the site in the past.

    No mobile phones or identification documents were discovered on the bodies.

    As per the details of identification, among the deceased were 20-year-old Alex Riyasat, known as Aini, from Sheikhupura; 28-year-old Muhammad Jeel, known as Sameera, from Khairpur; and Asma.

    The Gender Interactive Alliance (GIA), an organisation advocating for transgender rights, has released a statement following the incident. It said that the three victims resided in areas surrounding Bilawal Goth and Safora Town.

    The group said that the incident highlighted a disturbing trend of targeted violence against the transgender community, portraying it as an attempt to intimidate the entire community. 

    It called on the Sindh government and police to conduct an open investigation and make prompt arrests. They also demanded the creation of a dedicated protection unit for transgender individuals and the implementation of stricter laws against hate crimes.

    In the aftermath of the killings, members of the transgender community protested outside Jinnah Hospital. The demonstration was led by activist Bindiya Rana, who denounced the murders and announced that protests would take place across the province.

    Rana said that the incident had instilled fear within the community, raising concerns about whether they should refrain from leaving their homes altogether.

    Meanwhile, Sindh Chief Minister (CM) Murad Ali Shah has instructed the provincial inspector general to immediately arrest the killers and submit a report on the situation.

  • Court hands six-year term to man for blackmail through fake Facebook accounts

    Court hands six-year term to man for blackmail through fake Facebook accounts

    A judicial magistrate in Karachi has sentenced a man to six years in prison for creating fake Facebook accounts in his friend’s name and misusing them to share inappropriate photographs after she rejected his proposal to get engaged. 

    Judicial Magistrate (East) Yusra Ashfaq convicted Abdullah Saleem under Sections 20 (Dignity of a Natural Person), 21 (Modesty of a Natural Person and Minor) and 24 (Cyberstalking) of the Prevention of Electronic Crimes Act (Peca) 2016, awarding him two years’ imprisonment for each offence.


    “It is clear that the prosecution has successfully proven the charge against the accused. The prosecution has demonstrated that the accused tarnished the dignity of the complainant and her family, violated the complaint’s modesty, display videos without her consent, and displayed them publicly,” the court observed.

    According to the ruling, Abdullah Saleem’s actions were motivated by resentment and frustration after the complainant’s family turned down a formal engagement because of his anger issues. 

    State prosecutor Sheraz Rajpar claims that the complainant stated in her testimony that she had previously been friends with the man but broke up due to his inappropriate behavior.

     In order to blackmail her and her family, he later made fake Facebook profiles in her name and posted her personal pictures.

    The complainant further stated that the “accused admitted to being behind those accounts and threatened her that she would never be able to marry anyone else, even going so far as to say he would force her to commit suicide.” 


    Sheraz added that her testimony was corroborated by a verification report, screenshots, IP logs, WhatsApp records and a detailed forensic report. He said that during the inquiry, the accused handed over his phone to investigators, and a forensic examination confirmed that the “fake accounts and transmissions were linked to the accused’s number and IP address.” 

    The court denied the accused’s defense, pointing out that he had not presented sufficient evidence to back up his claims of false implication and denial of the charges.

    The case had been filed under Sections 20, 21, and 24 of PECA at the Cyber Crime Cell of the Federal Investigation Agency.

  • Sarees, Bengali and choosing one superstar over SRK; Here’s how Hania Aamir won over Bangladesh

    Sarees, Bengali and choosing one superstar over SRK; Here’s how Hania Aamir won over Bangladesh

    She came, she spoke and she conquered. Pakistani fan-favourite Hania Aamir has once again proven why she’s one of the most beloved stars of her generation, not just in Pakistan, but across the border and now in Bangladesh as well.

    Currently in Dhaka for a brand shoot representing Pakistan, Hania Aamir has taken social media by storm with her charm, wit, and wardrobe choices and fans just can’t get enough.

    During a recent public appearance at a star-studded event in Bangladesh, Hania was asked to pick between Bollywood superstar Shah Rukh Khan and Bangladeshi heartthrob Shakib Khan. With a cheeky smile, Hania turned to the cheering crowd and replied, “I think you guys like Shakib Khan more, so… Shakib Khan.”

    The audience erupted in applause and excitement, clearly loving her thoughtful gesture and grace. But she didn’t stop there. Hania also attempted to speak Bengali, sweetly saying: “Rakin tume dekhte shundar,” which means “Rakin, you are beautiful.”

    Fans were quick to praise her effort, dubbing her “the queen of hearts” and hailing her for embracing local culture with such ease and authenticity.

    Hania’s style game in Bangladesh has been nothing short of spectacular. From a stunning black bead-embroidered gown to a dazzling golden shimmery saree, she has been serving look after look. She even walked the ramp, exuding grace and confidence that left fans and media swooning.

    She also shared BTS glimpses from her photoshoots, donning a traditional floral frock, a bindi on her forehead, and a bright smile that lit up every frame. In another viral reel, she wore a green saree and added a Bengali song to the background, giving classic desi girl vibes with her signature shy-yet-playful expressions.

    It wasn’t just fans who fell under her spell. Fellow Pakistani celebrities were quick to flood her posts with love. Mahira Khan commented, “Beautiful.” Yumna Zaidi showered her with “Love love love” and Kinza Hashmi chimed in with “Haseen.”

    Of course, Hania’s ever-watchful fanbase didn’t miss a beat. Some hilariously pointed out that her hair appeared short in Pakistan just days before and suddenly seemed longer in Bangladesh.

    Hania Aamir continues to win hearts with her down-to-earth personality, infectious laughter, and ability to connect with fans beyond borders. Whether it’s India, Bangladesh, or back home in Pakistan, her star power is clearly on the rise. One thing’s for sure, wherever Hania goes, the spotlight follows.

  • US calls for parliamentary oversight of Pakistan’s defence budget

    US calls for parliamentary oversight of Pakistan’s defence budget

    The United States of America has recommended that Pakistan place its defence and intelligence budgets under parliamentary or civilian oversight, saying this would improve fiscal accountability and transparency.

    The suggestion was part of the US State Department’s 2025 Fiscal Transparency Report released on Friday. The annual review evaluates budget practices in 140 governments, examining how countries publish, audit, and disclose information about public spending.

    In its section on Pakistan, the report noted that military and intelligence budgets were not subject to sufficient civilian or parliamentary review. It said Islamabad could improve fiscal openness by allowing such scrutiny and by publishing its executive budget proposal in a timely manner. According to the assessment, the government did not release the proposal within a reasonable period, limiting informed debate and parliamentary discussion.

    The report also raised concerns about debt disclosure. It found that the government provided only limited information on its debt obligations, including those of major state-owned enterprises. It recommended making detailed data on public and state-owned enterprise debt available to the public.

    At the same time, the State Department highlighted positive practices. It observed that Pakistan’s enacted budget and end-of-year reports were publicly accessible, including online, and were generally reliable. These documents were also subject to audit by the supreme audit institution, which the report said met international standards of independence. Audit findings were described as being released within a reasonable timeframe.

    The review further noted that Pakistan had specified, in law and regulation, the criteria and procedures for awarding natural resource extraction contracts and licences, and that basic information on these awards was publicly available.

    This year’s assessment repeated concerns from earlier reports, particularly on the lack of oversight of defence spending and gaps in debt transparency.

    The release of the report coincides with Pakistan’s ongoing budgetary pressures. The government presented a Rs17.57 trillion budget for the fiscal year 2025-26. Of this, Rs9.7 trillion has been allocated for debt servicing, while Rs2.55 trillion is set aside for defence, an increase of nearly 20 percent compared to the previous year.

    The Fiscal Transparency Report is intended as a global benchmark for financial disclosure and accountability. It evaluates whether governments publish executive budgets on time, disclose debt obligations, ensure the independence of audit institutions, and subject sensitive expenditures such as defence and intelligence to oversight

  • Saima Noor drops nostalgia bomb with dance on her own song in Main Manto Nahin Hoon

    Saima Noor drops nostalgia bomb with dance on her own song in Main Manto Nahin Hoon

    Veteran actress Saima Noor has gone viral after performing a dance sequence in the latest episode of the most-talked drama of these days, Main Manto Nahin Hoon.

    The drama has garnered a strong following due to its captivating yet controversial storyline. During the onscreen festivities of Sajal Aly’s wedding, Saima, who plays Sajal’s aunt, was seen dancing to a song from her own monster hit Punjabi film from the 1990s Majajan.

    The nostalgic moment caught fans by surprise, as Saima brought her iconic cinematic dance style to the television screen. She is joined by several other women, including veteran actress Saba Faisal, who briefly dances alongside her.

    The inclusion of a classic film song and Saima’s signature dance moves added a unique flair to the drama and sparked lively reactions on social media. Many praised the actress for gracefully blending her film persona into a television role and bringing a touch of cinematic nostalgia to the small screen.

    While Main Manto Nahin Hoon continues to draw in viewers, this particular scene has become a standout moment.

    The drama stars Humayun Saeed as a university professor and Sajal Aly as his student, with romantic tension between their characters forming a central plotline. Sanam Saeed also features as a fellow university professor, while Azaan Sami Khan plays a negative role.

    The story further explores a longstanding feud between the families of Sajal Aly’s character, led by Asif Raza Mir, and Azaan Sami Khan’s character, played by Babar Ali, adding layers of conflict and drama.

    With its mix of romance, rivalry, and now a touch of retro glamour, Main Manto Nahin Hoon continues to remain a hit despite critical panning.

  • Almost one lac social media users under FBR radar for flaunting untaxed luxury

    Almost one lac social media users under FBR radar for flaunting untaxed luxury

    The Federal Board of Revenue (FBR) has collected data of around 100,000 individuals flaunting their wealth on social media, with the revenue watchdog poised to take action against them, reports have said citing sources.

    According to reports, FBR will audit 100,000 wealthy people in the initial phase. People showcasing their luxury lifestyle online, including mansions, expensive cars, jewellery, and other assets, have to disclose the source of income.

    Individuals wearing suits worth as much as $20,000, a sign of the extreme luxury at weddings, will also come under the tax net.

    Moreover, the tax authority will compare income tax returns submitted last year with those filed this year.

    FBR has made it clear that individuals who provide accurate and updated information in their income tax returns will not be penalised. However, those who fail to disclose their lavish spending or luxury assets risk facing strict legal consequences, according to reports.

    Officials urged citizens to update their tax returns promptly to avoid complications. “Nothing will be said to those who submit correct and updated income details,” reports quoted FBR as saying.

  • India could attack Pakistan again with Israeli support: Hamid Mir

    India could attack Pakistan again with Israeli support: Hamid Mir

    Pakistan has information that the hardliner Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP)-led government in India plans to once again attack Pakistan at some point and Israel would support it, senior journalist and analyst Hamid Mir has claimed.

    “I am telling you with full confidence that the Pakistani government has information that the Bharatiya Janata Party-led Hindu extremist government in India has made another plan to attack Pakistan at some point,” Mir said in a YouTube video, adding that whenever India attacks Pakistan, Israel would support it.

    The video comes days after Pakistan and Saudi Arabia signed a mutual defence pact, under which an attack on either country would be considered an attack on both.

    The agreement, which Mir said was signed after detailed discussions about prevailing threats from the unholy alliance of India and Israel, followed an Israeli attack on Doha in Qatar, and the interception of a drone above the Holy Mosque in Medina.

    The Prime Minister’s Office (PMO) late Wednesday night announced the signing of the agreement, which it said reflected the shared commitment of both nations to enhance their security and to achieve security and peace in the region and the world. A statement from the PMO said the pact aims to develop aspects of defence cooperation between the two countries and strengthen joint deterrence against any aggression.

    “This is a mini-NATO agreement, and more Muslim Arab countries can join the agreement,” Mir said in the video.

    He added that the country already shared a defence cooperation arrangement with China, Türkiye and Azerbaijan. “Whenever Pakistan faces threats from India or any other country, China and Türkiye are the first to stand with Pakistan. Azerbaijan recently stood with Pakistan as well.”

    Mir ruled out the claims that a military alliance was being constituted in comparison to the North Atlantic Treaty Organisation (NATO), saying it was being formed to create “deterrence” against the India-Israel alliance.

    Meanwhile, Middle East experts have been quoted by foreign media outlets as saying that the agreement between Islamabad and Riyadh could serve as a template for Pakistan to engage in similar bilateral defence cooperation pacts with the United Arab Emirates (UAE) and Qatar.

    Appearing on a private media outlet on Thursday, Pakistani Defence Minister Khawaja Asif also said that “the door had not been closed” and there was a possibility of other countries joining the Pakistan-Saudi Arabia security pact.

  • Despite Pakistan’s objections, Andy Pycroft returns as match referee for Super 4 India clash

    Despite Pakistan’s objections, Andy Pycroft returns as match referee for Super 4 India clash

    Andy Pycroft, the match referee at the centre of the controversy during the Pakistan-India clash on September 14, will once again officiate Sunday’s high-voltage Super Four encounter between the two arch-rivals.

    The Sept 14 Asia Cup clash had sparked a storm when Pycroft requested both captains, Salman Ali Agha and Suryakumar Yadav, to skip the customary handshake at the toss. It was a move that infuriated the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB), which promptly demanded his “immediate removal”.

    The fallout continued into Pakistan’s next match against the United Arab Emirates (UAE), with the team delaying their arrival and the match start time amid behind-the-scenes negotiations with the International Cricket Council (ICC).

    Tensions only eased after a last-minute meeting between Pycroft and Pakistan’s team management ahead of that match — a meeting that itself stirred further controversy over conflicting reports of an alleged apology by the referee.

    Now, with Pycroft officially retained as match referee for the upcoming clash, the high-octane rivalry resumes in a charged atmosphere. India, however, are steering clear of the off-field drama.

    “We’re just focused on our game,” Indian skipper Yadav said on Saturday. “Preparations have been good, and we’re sticking to our strengths. Past results don’t give us an edge… it’s a fresh game, and both teams will need to start strong.”

    India arrived back in Dubai early Saturday after their game against Oman, and will have an optional practice session. Pakistan are scheduled to have a full training session at the ICC Academy today.

    The match will be played at 7:30 pm, Pakistan Standard Time.

  • Atif Aslam’s Toronto tour sets milestone: Backstage glimpse reveals ‘The Real Show’

    Atif Aslam’s Toronto tour sets milestone: Backstage glimpse reveals ‘The Real Show’

    Music sensation Atif Aslam has taken fans behind the scenes of his recent Toronto concert, sharing a heartfelt video that captures the true spirit of his Canada tour.

    The video, titled “The Real Show,” offers a rare glimpse into the camaraderie, preparation and raw emotions that shaped one of his most memorable performances till date.

    The superstar performed to a sold-out crowd at Scotiabank Arena, becoming the first Pakistani solo artist to fill the prestigious venue. The performance was part of his ongoing “Borderless 2025” tour, which continues to attract massive crowds across North America. The Toronto leg of the tour was particularly special with the crowd singing along to his classics and reacting enthusiastically to every track.

    In the video posted to Instagram, Atif is seen surrounded by his crew and musicians backstage, reflecting on which songs resonated most with the audience. While his hit track Tu Chahiye plays in the background, team members share their favourite moments from the night. One musician described feeling “blessings” in the energy of the performance while another declared it the best show yet.

    A standout moment, as highlighted in the video, was Atif’s surprise performance of Michael Jackson’s Thriller, which one crew member called “the banger part of the show”.

    Adding to the magic of the tour was a special on-stage appearance by fellow artist Meesha Shafi. The duo lit up the arena with a high-voltage rendition of their Coke Studio hit Jugni, blending Punjabi folk with rock, much to the delight of the Toronto audience. Shafi also expressed her gratitude for being part of the historic show, calling it an honour to join Atif on such a grand stage.

    While the tour has been a roaring success, it hasn’t been without controversy.

    In a separate interview during his Canadian tour, Atif admitted that he misses Bollywood. Reflecting on his years of playback singing for Indian films, he described the experience as magical and said he remains hopeful about future collaborations beyond borders.

    The tour also sparked some mixed reactions online after a video from his Vancouver concert showed a fan dancing on stage beside him. While some praised the spontaneity, others criticised the behavior as disrespectful, igniting debate across social media platforms.

    As of now, Atif is continuing his journey with his next stop being Detroit.

  • Umar Hayat indicted in TikToker Sana Yousuf’s murder case

    Umar Hayat indicted in TikToker Sana Yousuf’s murder case

    In a major development, Umar Hayat, the primary suspect in the high-profile murder case of TikToker Sana Yousuf, has been formally indicted.

    As per the details, Additional District and Sessions Judge Muhammad Afzal Majoka conducted the hearing of the Sana Yousuf case, during which police presented Hayat before the court.

    Judge Majoka formally framed charges against the accused. However, Hayat pleaded not guilty and chose to contest the case. He denied all allegations, calling them baseless and fabricated.

    The court adjourned the proceedings until September 25 for the next phase of the trial.

    Sana Yousuf was fatally shot in Islamabad on June 3. Initial investigations suggest that Hayat had been persistently harassing the social media star for friendship, which she consistently declined. The final confrontation reportedly turned deadly when Sana tried to calm him, warning about nearby CCTV cameras before gunshots rang out.

    Eyewitnesses confirmed that Sana was shot twice and died on the spot. The suspect fled the scene, and her body was later shifted to PIMS for autopsy before being released to the family. Hayat was arrested a day later from Faisalabad.