ISLAMABAD: A 10-member joint investigation team (JIT) has been formed by Khyber Pakhtunkhwa Police after a local tourist was lynched to death in Swat over an accusation of desecrating the Holy Qur’an, confirmed officials on Sunday, noting that 23 suspects have been arrested based on the incident’s CCTV footage.
The tourist, Muhammad Suleman, who belonged to Pakistan’s Sialkot city, was dragged from a local police facility by a mob on Thursday before being tortured, killed and set on fire on suspicion of burning the pages of the Islamic scripture.
According to a notification seen by Arab News, the JIT includes senior police officials along with members of the Counter Terrorism Department, Special Branch and Intelligence Bureau to uncover the facts of the incident and bring those involved to justice.
“The JIT has started systematically collecting evidence, working along modern scientific and technical lines, including performing forensic analysis of the CCTV footage,” Superintendent of Police Hazrat Khan, who is leading the team, told Arab News. “We have also recorded statements from eyewitnesses and are adopting other investigative means.”
Khan said the team was investigating the matter from all possible angles to ensure that the perpetrators of the crime do not evade justice.
Asked about the details of the incident, he said that as soon as the accused was brought to a local police station on the fateful day, a large number of people stormed the building and damaged property and vehicles.
He confirmed the mob took the accused, killed him and then burned his body.
“So far, 23 people have been arrested, and efforts are underway to arrest more of the individuals involved,” he added.
The suspects in the case are facing several charges, including premeditated murder, rioting, unlawful assembly, use of deadly weapons and obstructing public servants in the discharge of their duties.
Giving details of the damages to the police station caused by the enraged mob, the police spokesperson in Swat, Nasir Iqbal, said that two motorcycles, five personal vehicles and one police mobile were set on fire.
He informed the building had also been damaged and ransacked by people.
Iqbal said all arrested individuals were local residents, and no political leader had been found involved in the incident.
“In the police report, 49 people were named after being identified through CCTV footage, and over 2,000 others were listed as unknown suspects,” he added.
Asked about reports of police negligence while dealing with the situation, he said no inquiry had been initiated against the Station House Officer (SHO) of the police precinct that came under attack.
He also maintained that all details of the case would be mentioned in the JIT report which was still investigating the matter.
The incident also came up for discussion in the National Assembly of Pakistan where the defense minister, Khawaja Muhammad Asif, said on Sunday it was parliament’s responsibility to take a clear stance on the issue.
“It is the responsibility of this parliament to unanimously stand and protect the people and minorities against such violence,” he said during his speech.
The minister added that no one should exploit the incident for political purposes, adding that Islam prohibited the killing of innocent people in the name of religion.
“No evidence of blasphemy has been found against those who were killed across the country in different incidents by mobs and, in many cases, people leveled such allegations to settle personal scores,” he continued.
Speaking to Arab News, security expert Syed Kaleem Imam emphasized the need to build police capacity to handle such sensitive situations and to educate the community to prevent such incidents.
“There are standard operating procedures in place to handle such crimes, but unfortunately, the police often struggle to control the mob or secure the accused due to a lack of understanding of the situation,” Syed Kaleem Imam, former inspector general of police, said.
“There should be more mock exercises for community policing to help the law enforcers deal with such incidents at every level,” he continued, adding that police officials faced undue inquiries and feared for their jobs when they resorted to the use of force in such emergency situations.
Imam also noted the government should stop pandering to popular sentiment and take proper action against such crimes, committed in the name of religion.
“There should be no administrative leniency toward criminals,” he emphasized. “The government should also sensitize the community through mosques and tell them that if anyone commits such crime [of blasphemy], they should be dealt with by the police. The locals should be made to refrain from using loudspeakers at the mosques to spread messages in such sensitive situations.”
Joint investigation team arrests 23 in mob lynching case in Pakistan’s Swat valley
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Joint investigation team arrests 23 in mob lynching case in Pakistan’s Swat valley
- The incident happened when a local tourist was accused of desecrating the Holy Qur’an by people
- Pakistan’s defense minister urges parliament to protect people and minorities against such violence
Alibaba launches online logistics services for Pakistani exporters
- Pakistani small and medium-sized enterprises have long struggled with optimizing their export processes to participate in global trade
- Alibaba says it has partnered with leading delivery companies to supporting the export of Pakistani goods to over 200 countries and regions
KARACHI: Alibaba, a Chinese-owned platform for global business-to-business (B2B) e-commerce, has launched online logistics services that are tailored to assist Pakistani exporters in optimizing their international trade processes, it said this week.
The explosive growth of cross-border e-commerce has created new opportunities for Pakistani small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs), which face significant challenges in optimizing their export processes to participate in global trade. Logistics has been identified as a major obstacle as businesses must find effective and reliable shipping solutions to ensure timely deliveries while minimizing costs and risks, according to the e-commerce giant.
Alibaba has partnered with leading international express delivery companies, such as CPEX, with the goal of supporting the export of Pakistani goods to over 200 countries and regions around the world. The service not only supports fast and reliable international shipping options but also integrates the entire logistics process from packaging and warehousing to delivery, thus helping businesses optimize costs and time.
Through its international express delivery partners, Alibaba will ensure that goods are transported safely and on schedule, while also providing detailed order tracking tools, and customs advisory services. These features will help businesses minimize risks and enhance their competitiveness in the international market.
“Online logistics services are essential for small and medium-sized enterprises in global trade. They not only streamline operations and reduce costs, but also empower businesses to reach global markets with ease,” said Summer Gao, head of global supply chain at Alibaba.
"By leveraging advanced technologies and comprehensive solutions, Alibaba.com helps support Pakistani SMEs in enhancing their competitiveness, ensuring timely deliveries, and responding swiftly to market demands, ultimately fueling their growth and success in the global arena."
Pakistan, which is currently treading a long path to economic recovery, has urged local businesses to increase exports as the government looks to boost trade and investment to revive the over $350 billion South Asian economy.
Launched in 1999, Alibaba serves buyers and suppliers from over 200 countries and regions around the world. It is engaged in services covering various aspects of commerce, including providing businesses with tools that help them reach a global audience for their products and helping buyers discover products, find suppliers and place orders online fast and efficiently.
The e-commerce giant said its logistics services for Pakistani sellers are cost-effective, have enhanced order tracking and control capabilities, and offer a fully digitalized order fulfillment process for packages dispatched to multiple countries and regions.
“The introduction of Alibaba.com's logistics services has greatly accelerated our transaction processes and bolstered customer trust,” said Zulqarnain Baryar, CEO of Clush Industries that specializes in garment production.
"With features such as detailed tracking and optimized shipping routes, these services ensure timely deliveries and improved risk management. These enhancements have not only streamlined our operations but have also facilitated new business opportunities internationally, allowing us to confidently expand our presence."
Berry Ma, head of Pakistan business at Alibaba, said their new logistics services aim to support Pakistani exporters by providing efficient solutions to overcome traditional barriers in international trade.
“We're committed to offering essential tools to help Pakistani businesses tap into significant growth opportunities in global markets,” Ma said.
Pakistan PM says encouraging to see women like Naila Kiani setting records in mountaineering
- Kiani on Friday summitted Kanchenjunga to become first Pakistani woman to summit 12 ‘eight-thousanders’
- She stands on the threshold of joining only 17 women who have conquered all 14 peaks above 8,000 meters
ISLAMABAD: Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif on Saturday praised Pakistani mountaineer Naila Kiani for scaling 8,586-meter Kanchenjunga, the world’s third highest peak, saying it was encouraging to see Pakistani women making records in such difficult sport.
With the ascent of Kanchenjunga on Friday, Kiani became the first Pakistani woman to scale 12 of the world’s 14 peaks above the height of 8,000 meters, according to Alpine Club of Pakistan (ACP), which arranges various expeditions.
The Pakistani mountaineer stands on the threshold of joining a global elite of only 17 women who have conquered all 14 eight-thousanders, Imagine Nepal, her expedition organizer, said after Friday’s summit.
“Pakistanis are making their country proud in every field of sports,” Sharif said in a statement. “It is encouraging to see Pakistani women setting records in a difficult sport like mountaineering.”
Kiani has previously summited Mount Makalu (8,485m), Broad Peak (8,047 meters), Annapurna (8,091 meters), K2 (8,611 meters), Lhotse (8,516 meters), Gasherbrum 1 (8,068 meters), Gasherbrum II (8,035 meters), Nanga Parbat (8,125 meters), Mount Everest (8,849 meters), Manaslu (8,156 meters) and Cho Oyu (8,201 meters) mountains.
The ACP described Kiani’s feat as a “monumental milestone” in the history of Pakistani mountaineering and a moment of immense national pride.
“From the towering heights of Everest and K2 to the perilous slopes of Annapurna and Lhotse, her journey tells a powerful story of grit, resilience and an unshakable will,” it said on Friday.
“This is not just a personal achievement— it is a symbol of empowerment for women in sports, a beacon of hope and inspiration for Pakistan, and a proud moment for every mountaineering enthusiast.”
Pakistan ranks seventh in civilian harm, second in IED casualties worldwide — report
- UK-based Action on Armed Violence monitor says Pakistan witnessed 790 civilian casualties in 248 incidents last years
- The Baloch Liberation Army killed and injured 119 civilians, followed by Daesh (45 casualties) and Pakistan Taliban (10)
ISLAMABAD: Pakistan ranked seventh in the world for civilian casualties from explosive weapons and second most affected nation in terms of casualties from improvised explosive devices (IEDs) last year, UK-based monitor Action on Armed Violence (AOAV) said this week.
In its annual report, the AOAV said it had recorded 67,026 deaths and injuries as a result of the use of explosive weapons around the world, which was the highest since 2010.
The report said 89% of 59,524 civilians were either killed or wounded by explosive weapons in 2024, adding that 41% of them, or 24,147 individuals, were killed in incidents of explosive violence.
Pakistan was the seventh most affected country for civilians harmed by explosive weapons last year, with 790 civilian casualties (210 killed) in 248 incidents, a 9% decrease from 2023. However, there was a 11% increase in incidents compared to 218 in 2023.
“The majority of civilian harm was attributed to non-state actors, who were reportedly responsible for 76% (603) of civilian casualties. In particular, the Balochistan Liberation Army (BLA) killed and injured 119 civilians in Pakistan last year,” the report read.
“The Islamic State (Daesh) affiliate in the region, Islamic State – Khorasan Province (IS-KP), was the reported perpetrator of 45 civilian casualties in Pakistan last year, down from 194 recorded civilian casualties in 2023. The Tehreek-e-Taliban Pakistan (TTP) killed and injured 10 civilians last year, down from 32 in 2023.”
Unknown non-state actors accounted for 54% of civilian casualties (423), down from 541 recorded in 2023, in Pakistan. The BLA was the reported perpetrator of 15% (119) civilian casualties, marking a 440% increase from 22 in 2023.
Pakistan is currently battling twin insurgencies: one led my religiously motivated groups, including the TTP, mainly in its Khyber Pakhtunkhwa (KP) province and the other by ethno-nationalist Baloch separatist groups like the BLA in Balochistan.
Islamabad has frequently accused Afghanistan and India of supporting the TTP, BLA and other militant groups who have mounted their attacks in Pakistan in recent years. Kabul and New Delhi deny the accusations.
In terms of IEDs, Lebanon saw the highest level of harm globally, with 3,373 civilians killed and injured across only 16 incidents, accounting for 58% of civilian casualties from IED attacks globally, according to the report.
Pakistan saw the second highest level of civilian harm due to IED attacks, with AOAV recording 485 civilian casualties (139 fatalities) in 132 incidents.
“This is a 30% decrease in civilian casualties, but an 8 % increase in incidents,” the monitor said.
Other countries which saw elevated levels of civilian harm from IEDs in 2024 included Nigeria (385 civilian casualties), Iran (378), Somalia (270), Syria (253), Afghanistan (170), and Myanmar (84).
Authorities issue thunderstorm alert for Pakistan’s Punjab, Khyber Pakhtunkhwa provinces
- Last week, a child was killed and 11 people were injured as a thunderstorm hit upper parts of the country
- Pakistan has seen erratic changes in weather leading to frequent heatwaves, untimely rains in recent years
ISLAMABAD: The National Disaster Management Authority (NDMA) has issued an impact-based weather alert predicting isolated showers, thunderstorms, windstorms and dust storms over the next 24 hours in various parts of Punjab and Khyber Pakhtunkhwa provinces and the federal capital of Islamabad.
In Punjab, the areas that may be affected include Rawalpindi, Attock, Jhelum, Chakwal, Mianwali, Sialkot, Faisalabad, Sargodha, Gujranwala, Gujrat, Lahore, Narowal and adjoining regions, according to the NDMA.
In Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, isolated rainfall, windstorm, thunderstorm and dust storm are expected in Chitral, Battagram, Kohistan, Kohat, Kurram, Bannu, Mardan, Peshawar, Swabi, Charsadda, Nowshera, Mansehra, Abbottabad, Dera Ismail Khan, Bajaur, Mohmand and surrounding areas.
“These weather conditions are likely to bring temporary relief from the prevailing heatwave,” the NDMA said in a statement.
“However, strong winds and thunderstorms may uproot weak trees and cause temporary power outages. Dust storms may damage fragile structures, rooftops, vehicles, and electrical infrastructure. Reduced visibility during storms may increase the risk of road accidents.”
The authority advised the public to not go near trees, billboards and other unstable structures during storms.
“Park vehicles in secure, covered locations and minimize outdoor movement,” it said. “NDMA is closely monitoring the situation and coordinating with relevant departments to ensure timely response and public safety.”
Last week, a child was killed and 11 people were injured as a thunderstorm hit upper parts of Pakistan, rescue officials said. In April, an intense hailstorm battered Pakistan’s capital and its surrounding areas. Several vehicles were damaged and house windows smashed as hailstones rained down from the sky on April 16.
Pakistan has seen erratic changes in its weather patterns which have led to frequent heat waves, untimely rains, storms, cyclones and droughts in recent years. Scientists have blamed the events on human-driven climate change.
In 2022, devastating floods, blamed on human-driven climate change, killed more than 1,700 Pakistanis, affected another 33 million and caused the country over $30 billion in economic losses.
IMF team concludes Pakistan visit after talks on budget proposals, economic policy and reforms
- The visit concluded hours after the Pakistani government announced it will now present Budget 2025-26 on June 10
- Pakistan aims for 1.6% primary surplus of GDP in new budget as next IMF reviews expected in second half of 2025
ISLAMABAD: An International Monetary Fund (IMF) team has concluded its visit to Pakistan after discussions with authorities regarding the upcoming budget, broader economic policy and reforms under its ongoing $7 billion loan program, the lender said on Saturday.
The visit concluded hours after the Pakistani government announced it would now present the Budget 2025-26 on June 10, a delay from the earlier announced date of June 2, seen by many as a result of authorities’ struggle to finalize fiscal targets.
The Economic Survey 2024-25, which details performance of various sectors of the economy in the outgoing fiscal year, will be unveiled on June 9, a day before the budget presentation, according to the Pakistani finance ministry.
The discussions between Islamabad and the IMF team, led by Mission Chief Nathan Porter, began on May 19 and focused on recent economic developments, IMF program implementation, and the budget strategy for the next fiscal year.
“The authorities reaffirmed their commitment to fiscal consolidation while safeguarding social and priority expenditures, aiming for a primary surplus of 1.6 percent of GDP in FY2026,” Porter was quoted as saying by the IMF.
“Discussions focused on actions to enhance revenue — including by bolstering compliance and expanding the tax base — and prioritize expenditure. We will continue discussions toward agreeing over the authorities’ FY26 budget over the coming days.”
The IMF this month approved first review of Pakistan’s loan program, unlocking a $1 billion payment. A fresh $1.4 billion loan was also approved under the IMF’s climate resilience fund.
The IMF loan is vital for Pakistan which is trying to revive its debt-ridden economy that is expected to expand 2.68 percent by June, about one percent lower than the government’s earlier projection.
The IMF’s latest country report, issued last week, mentioned certain structural benchmarks for Pakistan’s economic reform program that officials said represented the natural progression of the measures already agreed upon, when Pakistan signed the Memorandum for Economic and Financial Policies (MEFP) in September.
“These benchmarks are not surprises. They are deliberate follow-ons to earlier milestones,” Khurram Schehzad, an adviser to Pakistan’s finance minister, told Arab News this week, citing Pakistan’s parliamentary approval of the next budget in line with the IMF staff agreement as a second step toward the country’s goal of achieving a primary surplus of 2 percent of GDP by FY27.
“The first step was the FY25 budget [presented in June last year], which targeted a 1.0 percent surplus.”
Discussions between Pakistan and the visiting IMF team also covered ongoing energy sector reforms aimed at improving financial viability and reducing the high-cost structure of Pakistan’s power sector as well as other structural reforms which will help foster “sustainable growth and promote a more level playing field for business and investment,” according to the lender.
Pakistani authorities emphasized their commitment to ensuring sound macroeconomic policy-making and -building buffers.
“In this context, maintaining an appropriately tight and data-dependent monetary policy remains a priority to ensure inflation is anchored within the central bank’s medium-term target range of 5–7 percent,” the lender said.
“At the same time, rebuilding foreign exchange reserve buffers, preserving a fully functioning FX [foreign exchange] market, and allowing for greater exchange rate flexibility are critical to strengthening resilience to external shocks.”
The next IMF mission is expected to visit Pakistan in the second half of 2025 for next reviews its loan program and climate fund facility.
