Pentagon clamps down on Pokemon Go

WASHINGTON: The Pentagon doesn´t like Pikachu. In the latest bizarre news surrounding the global phenomenon that is Pokemon Go, US Defense Department officials on Friday said employees should not download the game onto their government-issued smartphones.

"You can imagine a number of reasons [why] that wouldn´t necessarily be a prudent thing to do," Pentagon deputy press secretary Gordon Trowbridge told reporters.

"Aside from any security concerns, I think taxpayers would appreciate government phones being used for government business."

Pokemon Go is an augmented reality app through which users hunt fictional digitized animal characters like the furry yellow Pikachu, which have been scattered around the world, often in unlikely locations.

The game has become a global craze, with crowds of players dashing to locations to try to snag characters.

Several military installations have warned troops about the possible perils of playing Pokemon Go on bases, including near runways.

Trowbridge jokingly said he could not definitively confirm reports a Pokemon "gym" -- a virtual battle arena -- has been placed in the courtyard in the middle of the vast Pentagon building.

"Last I heard, there was still a gym in center courtyard. I´m not a player myself so I will defer to others," Trowbridge said.

"I can confirm it," quipped Pentagon spokesman Captain Jeff Davis.

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Pentagon clamps down on Pokemon Go

WASHINGTON: The Pentagon doesn´t like Pikachu. In the latest bizarre news surrounding the global phenomenon that is Pokemon Go, US Defense Department officials on Friday said employees should not download the game onto their government-issued smartphones.

"You can imagine a number of reasons [why] that wouldn´t necessarily be a prudent thing to do," Pentagon deputy press secretary Gordon Trowbridge told reporters.

"Aside from any security concerns, I think taxpayers would appreciate government phones being used for government business."

Pokemon Go is an augmented reality app through which users hunt fictional digitized animal characters like the furry yellow Pikachu, which have been scattered around the world, often in unlikely locations.

The game has become a global craze, with crowds of players dashing to locations to try to snag characters.

Several military installations have warned troops about the possible perils of playing Pokemon Go on bases, including near runways.

Trowbridge jokingly said he could not definitively confirm reports a Pokemon "gym" -- a virtual battle arena -- has been placed in the courtyard in the middle of the vast Pentagon building.

"Last I heard, there was still a gym in center courtyard. I´m not a player myself so I will defer to others," Trowbridge said.

"I can confirm it," quipped Pentagon spokesman Captain Jeff Davis.

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Rocky Afghanistan not in Pak favour: US

WASHINGTON: The US State Department on Thursday acknowledged Pakistan’s efforts in dismantling terrorist networks but also, in the same breath, mentioned that such progress would be undermined if Afghanistan remained rocky and it would not be in favour of Pakistan.

“Instability in Afghanistan is not in Pakistan’s interest and will undermine the significant progress that the Pakistan military has made in shutting down terrorist safe havens,” Elizabeth Trudeau, Director Press Office, said during a daily briefing here.

The press director also said that the United States was in constant contact with Pakistan on reports about Taliban and ISIS (Daesh) joining hands. She added that the contact remained at the highest civilian as well as military level. “In terms of our conversations, we have been very clear with the highest level of the Pakistani government that Pakistan must target all groups,” she said, noting, “General Raheel Sharif actually spoke to this very recently.”

Answering a question, she said that peace in Pakistan and stability in the broader region “requires that military threats be addressed in a comprehensive way.”“Pakistan has always had a strong position that it wishes stability in Pakistan, while the US has been asking it repeatedly not to discriminate against any terrorist group.

An action against the notorious Haqqani Network has been a core issue lately, compelling the administration officials to withhold substantial amount of the Coalition Support Fund,” the press director said.

 â€"Originally published in The News

 

 

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PCB stops players from attending events on scandal fears

LONDON: The Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) has told the national team players to seek security clearance before attending any fundraisers, social gatherings and community events while they are touring England and especially in the middle of the matches.

The PCB took action after several fundraisers in London were announced selling tickets in the name of top Pakistani players who are part of the Test and one day squads. The PCB manager Intikhab Alam stopped players from attending a dinner on Wednesday night in West London which had published posters of leading players and sold tables to British Pakistani community members promising “meet and greet”.

Inzamamul Haq, Mushtaq Ahmed, Amir Sohail, Saeed Ajmal and some former cricketers attended the dinner but at least three players, including Msibahul Haq and Yasir Shah, who were on the marketing posters, didn’t show up at the event. A source in the PCB told this correspondent that Intikhab Alam told players in strictest terms that they were not allowed to attend the dinner and should rest and concentrate on the game instead of attending dinner parties.

The source told The News that the security management of the PCB told the players to steer clear of the dinner and anyone violating the security conduct will be punished. One of the organisers of the event told The News that the whole event was planned around Misbah but at the last minute the security management struck and didn’t allow him to go out of the hotel.

The PCB’s fears have risen after some controversial individuals were seen getting too close and personal with the players at the two dinner events attended by around half a dozen visiting players in Manchester. It is a possibility that some of these individuals, involved in the organisation of these events, might have ties with the match-fixing underworld and their modus operandi is to lure players into their schemes through “charity events, sponsorship deals and meet and greet events”.

The presence of individuals at those events gave rise to suspicions that there could be a repeat of the infamous spot-fixing case of 2010 which brought disrepute to Pakistani cricket after Salman Butt, Muhammad Amir and Muhammad Asif were caught being involved in criminal activities in association with their sporting agent Mazhar Majeed. 

This correspondent can exclusively reveal that an English media organisation has penetrated again into the Pakistani cricket team players through “social contacts” to lure Pakistani cricketers into financial scandals during the current tour of England so that a big story could be created. 

Shahid Afridi’s today’s (Saturday) charity called “Shahid Afridi Foundation” is organising a dinner night to raise funds for Afridi’s “projects” in Pakistan but the event has descended into controversy.

The marketing posters being circulated by the event promoters promise that Test captain Misbahul Haq, Sarfaraz Ahmed, Younis Khan, Yasir Shah, Muhammad Hafeez, Wahab Riaz, Shan Masood, Muhammad Amir, Ahmad Shahzad, Mushtaq Ahmad, Azhar Mahmood, Azhar Ali, Sohail Khan, Sohail Tanvir and Muhammad Rizwan will attend the event.

The poster asks those interested to pay £150 VIP and £75 for standard tickets to meet the players but at least six players named in the poster confirmed that they will not be attending the dinner and that the organisers added their names in the posters without their permission to sell tickets.

Following the controversy, the PCB manager Intikhab Alam said in a statement on Friday that none of the players, who are part of the Oval Test team against England, will be allowed to attend the “dinner party”.

Intikhab Alam said, “Only those players who are not playing in the match (Oval Test) will be allowed to attend the dinner”.

When asked questions about the off-field engagements of players while touring England, a spokesman for the PCB said that when on tours “the players do attend such events with the permission of the team management and players also get paid for such functions”.

However, the PCB spokesman clarified, “The team management does not permit participation of players in such events one day prior to a match or during the match. On most occasions, especially when all players are participating, the security manager accompanies them to oversee the security arrangements.”

One of the organisers of Shahid Afridi's dinner event said it was aware that the PCB has told players not to attend the dinner because the event on Saturday is happening in the middle of the match. He said the event was planned only after the players agreed to attend the event.

- Originally published in The News

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India rejects UNHRC's request to visit occupied Kashmir

India has rejected United Nations Human Rights Council?s request for a visit to occupied Kashmir to investigate human rights violations in the region, mentioned a Times of India report on Saturday.

According to the report, Foreign Minister Sushma Swaraj said that the Indian government had received a letter from the UNHRC, requesting a visit to the Indian-held Kashmir.

The foreign minister had raised the matter in an all-party conference called on Friday to discuss the prevailing violence in the region.

It was reported that all the parties unanimously rejected any third-party arbitration in the matter.

A few days ago, Prime Minister Nawaz Sharif had written letters to the UN Secretary General Ban Ki-Moon and UN High Commissioner for Human Rights Prince Zeid Ra'ad Al Hussein, urging them to make efforts to end the persistent and egregious violations of the basic human rights in Indian-occupied Kashmir (IoK), the Pakistani foreign ministry had said in a statement.

Indian authorities had suspended all mobile telephone services except postpaid connections of state-run BSNL, citing possible protests after Friday prayers.

Mobile services were suspended July 15 after freedom fighter Burhan Wani was martyred by Indian forces on the July 8 and led to an escalation in protests.

Indian security forces have resorted to firing pellets to disperse protesters injuring over 3500, and rendering some blind.

Since July, dozens of Kashmiri youth have lost their eyesight after Indian forces resorted to using pellet guns on unarmed civilians.

Doctors at the Shri Maharaja Hari Singh hospital have treated over 360 pellet victims since Wani was martyred and have performed over 400 eye surgeries.

Devastated by the atrocities, the doctors had also earlier protested at the Government Medical College Srinagar holding up placards reading ?Hear our silence, see our blindness? and ?Stop killing innocent kids?.

 

 

 

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CNG supply across Sindh resumes after three-day long strike

KARACHI: CNG stations across Sindh resumed supply after a three-day long strike.

CNG from today will be sold in kilograms and not litres.

The strike was called off after a round of successful talks on Friday between CNG Association and government.

In a press conference held after the meeting representatives of the CNG Association told media that they had met Oil and Gas Regulatory Authority (OGRA) officials and the petroleum minister in Islamabad on August 11.

During the meeting the CNG Association explained their issues with the government.

Another meeting between stakeholders will be held in Karachi.

 

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Anti-Corruption Dept-Karachi Inter Board row over 'result tampering' deepens

KARACHI: The row between Sindh Anti-Corruption Department and Board of Intermediate Education Karachi deepened late on Friday night after anti-corruption officials once again reached the board office to investigate alleged result tampering, leading to a heated verbal exchange with board employees.

The anti-corruption team earlier in the day had ended its raid after reportedly arresting one employee and seizing record. Officials had claimed to have found irrefutable evidences of tampering of results.

The row escalated when the anti-corruption officials once again reached the Inter Board late this night, prompting the employees to stop working as a sign of protest.

The move was followed by an emergency press conference by Akhtar Ghouri, chairman Karachi Inter Board, who alleged the anti-corruption team of subjecting board employees to torture.

"The team snatched away examination copies and now the entire result has become suspicious," he said.

Ghouri later approached Shahrah e Noor Jahan police station to get a case lodged against anti-corruption officials.

Anti-corruption authorities, on the other hand, remained firm on their claims of having discovered over 100 cases of result tampering with evidences. They feared that the computer records would be changed if the team was called back from the board office.

Earlier, Sindh Minister for Education Jam Mehtab Hussain Dahar had said that the raid was conducted on the directives of CM Murad Ali Shah, following a series of complaints. The intermediate results would not be delayed, he had assured.

An anti-corruption court on Friday had ordered to send the under custody board employee, Adil Anwar, to jail on judicial remand. The court, however, had expressed displeasure over delay in presenting the accused before it.

Anwar was arrested on August 9 but produced before the court on August 11.

On Thursday, Chairman Anti-Corruption Department, Ghulam Qadir Thebo had said, "We have, so far, found 102 cases in which the results were tampered, along with evidences".

The administration of the Inter Board had rejected the allegations as baseless.

The deepening row, however, seems to be jeopardizing the future of thousands of students of the pre-medical group, whose results might possibly be delayed in the wake of investigations.

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Anti-Corruption Dept-Karachi Inter Board row over 'result tampering' deepens

KARACHI: The row between Sindh Anti-Corruption Department and Board of Intermediate Education Karachi deepened late on Friday night after anti-corruption officials once again reached the board office to investigate alleged result tampering, leading to a heated verbal exchange with board employees.

The anti-corruption team earlier in the day had ended its raid after reportedly arresting one employee and seizing record. Officials had claimed to have found irrefutable evidences of tampering of results.

The row escalated when the anti-corruption officials once again reached the Inter Board late this night, prompting the employees to stop working as a sign of protest.

The move was followed by an emergency press conference by Akhtar Ghouri, chairman Karachi Inter Board, who alleged the anti-corruption team of subjecting board employees to torture.

"The team snatched away examination copies and now the entire result has become suspicious," he said.

Ghouri later approached Shahrah e Noor Jahan police station to get a case lodged against anti-corruption officials.

Anti-corruption authorities, on the other hand, remained firm on their claims of having discovered over 100 cases of result tampering with evidences. They feared that the computer records would be changed if the team was called back from the board office.

Earlier, Sindh Minister for Education Jam Mehtab Hussain Dahar had said that the raid was conducted on the directives of CM Murad Ali Shah, following a series of complaints. The intermediate results would not be delayed, he had assured.

An anti-corruption court on Friday had ordered to send the under custody board employee, Adil Anwar, to jail on judicial remand. The court, however, had expressed displeasure over delay in presenting the accused before it.

Anwar was arrested on August 9 but produced before the court on August 11.

On Thursday, Chairman Anti-Corruption Department, Ghulam Qadir Thebo had said, "We have, so far, found 102 cases in which the results were tampered, along with evidences".

The administration of the Inter Board had rejected the allegations as baseless.

The deepening row, however, seems to be jeopardizing the future of thousands of students of the pre-medical group, whose results might possibly be delayed in the wake of investigations.

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Messi rejoins Argentina for 'love' of country

BUENOS AIRES: Star striker Lionel Messi will return to play for the Argentine national football team for 'love' of his country, despite earlier vowing to retire in frustration, he said on Friday.

Argentina´s new coach Edgardo Bauza promptly named him to the squad for two looming qualifying games for the 2018 World Cup.

It was heartening news for the country´s demanding soccer fans after Argentina were knocked out of the Olympic Games this week in the group stage, their latest in a string of humiliations.

The 29-year-old Barcelona superstar had abruptly announced his international retirement in tears after Argentina lost the Copa America final to Chile on June 26.

"A lot of things went through my mind on the night of the final and I gave serious thought to quitting, but my love for my country and this shirt is too great," he said on Friday in a statement released by his management company.

His earlier vow to quit had dismayed fans, many of whom held street rallies and posted online messages begging him not to go.

It became practically an affair of state when Argentina´s President Mauricio Macri called on him to stay.

"It is a gift from God to have the best player in the world in a footballing country like ours," Macri said in June.

"Lionel Messi is the greatest thing we have in Argentina and we must take care of him."

World Cup prep

Bauza met with Messi in Barcelona this week.

On Friday, he announced his list of players for games against Uruguay on September 1 and Venezuela on September 6.

He named Messi as well as Manchester City´s Sergio Aguero among six strikers in the squad. He notably left out Juventus forward Gonzalo Higuain.

Bauza took over the job from Gerardo Martino and was tasked with turning things around ahead of the 2018 World Cup, amid a management crisis at the Argentine Football Association.

"There are a lot of issues that need to be resolved in Argentine football, but I prefer to help from within and not to criticize from the outside," Messi´s statement said.

"I send my thanks to all of those who want me to continue playing for Argentina. I hope that we´ll be able to give them something to cheer about soon."

Olympic disappointment

Argentina have suffered a string of disappointing losses in big tournaments with Messi, including the World Cup final in 2014.

His vow to quit followed by Martino´s resignation deepened the chaos in the squad ahead of the Olympics.

Argentina eventually exited the Games in Brazil on Wednesday after a 1-1 draw with Honduras.

Five Ballons d´Or, four Champions League titles and three Club World Cups have prompted many to rank Messi the best player ever.

But at international level he has only a 2008 Olympic title.

His shortage of international silverware is arguably the one thing that stops him definitively eclipsing Argentina´s World Cup-winning soccer legend Diego Maradona.

Messi´s phenomenal goal-scoring record and skills have helped secure eight league crowns with Barcelona as well as four Spanish Cups and six Spanish Super Cups.

He helped lead Barcelona to league triumph in Spain this year, as one in a deadly trio of strikers along with Brazilian Neymar and Uruguayan Luis Suarez.

But Messi has suffered off the pitch in a court case in Spain. He was convicted last month of tax fraud related to his image rights and vowed to appeal.

The Spanish court handed him and his father Jorge a 21-month suspended jail sentence.

The player was also fined the equivalent of $2.3 million and his father $1.8 million.

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Messi rejoins Argentina for 'love' of country

BUENOS AIRES: Star striker Lionel Messi will return to play for the Argentine national football team for 'love' of his country, despite earlier vowing to retire in frustration, he said on Friday.

Argentina´s new coach Edgardo Bauza promptly named him to the squad for two looming qualifying games for the 2018 World Cup.

It was heartening news for the country´s demanding soccer fans after Argentina were knocked out of the Olympic Games this week in the group stage, their latest in a string of humiliations.

The 29-year-old Barcelona superstar had abruptly announced his international retirement in tears after Argentina lost the Copa America final to Chile on June 26.

"A lot of things went through my mind on the night of the final and I gave serious thought to quitting, but my love for my country and this shirt is too great," he said on Friday in a statement released by his management company.

His earlier vow to quit had dismayed fans, many of whom held street rallies and posted online messages begging him not to go.

It became practically an affair of state when Argentina´s President Mauricio Macri called on him to stay.

"It is a gift from God to have the best player in the world in a footballing country like ours," Macri said in June.

"Lionel Messi is the greatest thing we have in Argentina and we must take care of him."

World Cup prep

Bauza met with Messi in Barcelona this week.

On Friday, he announced his list of players for games against Uruguay on September 1 and Venezuela on September 6.

He named Messi as well as Manchester City´s Sergio Aguero among six strikers in the squad. He notably left out Juventus forward Gonzalo Higuain.

Bauza took over the job from Gerardo Martino and was tasked with turning things around ahead of the 2018 World Cup, amid a management crisis at the Argentine Football Association.

"There are a lot of issues that need to be resolved in Argentine football, but I prefer to help from within and not to criticize from the outside," Messi´s statement said.

"I send my thanks to all of those who want me to continue playing for Argentina. I hope that we´ll be able to give them something to cheer about soon."

Olympic disappointment

Argentina have suffered a string of disappointing losses in big tournaments with Messi, including the World Cup final in 2014.

His vow to quit followed by Martino´s resignation deepened the chaos in the squad ahead of the Olympics.

Argentina eventually exited the Games in Brazil on Wednesday after a 1-1 draw with Honduras.

Five Ballons d´Or, four Champions League titles and three Club World Cups have prompted many to rank Messi the best player ever.

But at international level he has only a 2008 Olympic title.

His shortage of international silverware is arguably the one thing that stops him definitively eclipsing Argentina´s World Cup-winning soccer legend Diego Maradona.

Messi´s phenomenal goal-scoring record and skills have helped secure eight league crowns with Barcelona as well as four Spanish Cups and six Spanish Super Cups.

He helped lead Barcelona to league triumph in Spain this year, as one in a deadly trio of strikers along with Brazilian Neymar and Uruguayan Luis Suarez.

But Messi has suffered off the pitch in a court case in Spain. He was convicted last month of tax fraud related to his image rights and vowed to appeal.

The Spanish court handed him and his father Jorge a 21-month suspended jail sentence.

The player was also fined the equivalent of $2.3 million and his father $1.8 million.

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Three terrorists killed in Quetta gunbattle with FC

QUETTA: Three terrorists were killed in Quetta after an exchange of fire with Frontier Corps (FC) personnel late on Friday night.

The incident occurred in Saryab area when terrorists opened fired at FC personnel. They also hurled a hand grenade on security men.

However, three militants were killed in retaliation by the paramilitary force. Two security men were also wounded in the fire exchange.

The gunbattle lasted for some time prompting the officials to call in reinforcements.

The identities of the deceased terrorists are yet to be ascertained.

Earlier this week, a deadly suicide bombing at Quetta's Civil Hospital had left at least 70 people dead and wounded over 110 others.

On Thursday, another roadside explosive device targeted the vehicle of a federal Sharia court’s judge. The incident injured 13 people including a policeman.

Monday's bombing at the hospital had prompted a call by the army chief for combing operations against terrorists and their sleeper cells across the country.

Since then, search operations are continued in various cities and the security and law enforcement agencies (LEAs) are being seen going after miscreants with a renewed vigour.

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Three terrorists killed in Quetta gunbattle with FC

QUETTA: Three terrorists were killed in Quetta after an exchange of fire with Frontier Corps (FC) personnel late on Friday night.

The incident occurred in Saryab area when terrorists opened fired at FC personnel. They also hurled a hand grenade on security men.

However, three militants were killed in retaliation by the paramilitary force. Two security men were also wounded in the fire exchange.

The gunbattle lasted for some time prompting the officials to call in reinforcements.

The identities of the deceased terrorists are yet to be ascertained.

Earlier this week, a deadly suicide bombing at Quetta's Civil Hospital had left at least 70 people dead and wounded over 110 others.

On Thursday, another roadside explosive device targeted the vehicle of a federal Sharia court?s judge. The incident injured 13 people including a policeman.

Monday's bombing at the hospital had prompted a call by the army chief for combing operations against terrorists and their sleeper cells across the country.

Since then, search operations are continued in various cities and the security and law enforcement agencies (LEAs) are being seen going after miscreants with a renewed vigour.

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Daesh leader in Afghanistan and Pakistan killed in US strike: official

WASHINGTON: The Islamic State (Daesh) group´s leader in Afghanistan and Pakistan, Hafiz Saeed, was killed in July in a strike in the border region between the two countries, a US defense official said Friday.

"They got him," the official said, speaking on condition of anonymity ahead of an official announcement.

The death of Saeed represents a major setback for IS as it tries to establish itself as a serious force in Pakistan and Afghanistan.

Afghan authorities erroneously believed Saeed had been killed in another strike in July 2015, when a US drone targeted dozens of IS-linked cadres in restive Nangarhar province, close to the Pakistani border.

That attack came less than six months after another strike in Afghanistan killed Abdul Rauf Khadim, who was thought to be the IS number two in the country.

Saeed was named head of Daesh´s "Khorasan province", which includes Afghanistan, Pakistan and parts of neighboring countries, early last year when a group of Pakistani Taliban switched allegiance to the group.

Since then, there have been defections from the Afghan Taliban, with some insurgents apparently adopting the IS flag to rebrand themselves as a more lethal force.

Most NATO combat troops who had been fighting the Taliban and other insurgent groups have now left Afghanistan, with responsibility for the country´s security now in the hands of local forces.

The Afghan troops, however, still rely on US air support and training and have struggled to stem frequent Taliban offensives.

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Nisar most unsuccessful interior minister: Khursheed Shah

KARACHI: Opposition leader Khursheed Shah on Friday while replying to replying to Interior Minister?s criticism on Pakistan People?s Party (PPP) leadership said that Chaudhary Nisar Ali Khan was the most unsuccessful interior minister in country?s history.

Speaking to the media in Karachi, he said,? If Chaudhary Nisar was doing his duty than there would have been no terrorism in Pakistan.?

He said that Nisar never visits locations that are struck by terrorism, adding that he has nothing better to do than press conferences.

Shah said that Nisar?s entire attention was on ticketing issues of Bilawal Bhutto and Ayyan Ali.

He further said that he would reply to the remarks of Chaudhary Nisar in Parliament.

Earlier, Nisar had said that the plane tickets of model Ayyan Ali and PPP chairman Bilawal Bhutto Zardari are purchased from the same account.

He said, ?Few people came and asked to take back case against Ayyan Ali and also allow bail for Dr Asim, only then there can be peace between you and PPP.?

 

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Nisar most unsuccessful interior minister: Khursheed Shah

KARACHI: Opposition leader Khursheed Shah on Friday while replying to replying to Interior Minister’s criticism on Pakistan People’s Party (PPP) leadership said that Chaudhary Nisar Ali Khan was the most unsuccessful interior minister in country’s history.

Speaking to the media in Karachi, he said,” If Chaudhary Nisar was doing his duty than there would have been no terrorism in Pakistan.”

He said that Nisar never visits locations that are struck by terrorism, adding that he has nothing better to do than press conferences.

Shah said that Nisar’s entire attention was on ticketing issues of Bilawal Bhutto and Ayyan Ali.

He further said that he would reply to the remarks of Chaudhary Nisar in Parliament.

Earlier, Nisar had said that the plane tickets of model Ayyan Ali and PPP chairman Bilawal Bhutto Zardari are purchased from the same account.

He said, “Few people came and asked to take back case against Ayyan Ali and also allow bail for Dr Asim, only then there can be peace between you and PPP.”

 

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Nisar should implement, not destroy NAP: Chandio

KARACHI: Sindh Information Advisor Maula Bux Chandio on Friday while replying to Interior Minister Chaudhary Nisar Ali Khan?s criticism said that if Pakistan People?s Party?s (PPP) leadership was targeted than they would not remain silent.

He said that Chaudhary Nisar?s statement was akin to accepting defeat, adding that targeting individuals depicted low-mindedness.

 He further said that Nisar should ensure implementation of National Action Plan (NAP) instead of destroying it.

Earlier, Nisar had said that the plane tickets of model Ayyan Ali and PPP chairman Bilawal Bhutto Zardari are purchased from the same account.

He said, ?Few people came and asked to take back case against Ayyan Ali and also allow bail for Dr Asim, only then there can be peace between you and PPP.?

 

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Pakistan ready to invite India for dialogue on Kashmir issue: Sartaj Aziz

ISLAMABAD: Pakistan is ready to invite India for a dialogue focused on the Kashmir issue, the prime minister's Foreign Affairs Advisor said Friday, adding that the country's Foreign Secretary would write a letter to his Indian counterpart in this regard.

Briefing the media in Islamabad today, Foreign Affairs Advisor Sartaj Aziz said the Kashmir issue would be on top of Pakistan?s agenda during forthcoming session of the UN General Assembly.

He said Foreign Secretary Aizaz Ahmed Chaudhry would soon write to his Indian counterpart to formally invite India for a dialogue on the issue.

Sartaj said there were indications that a splinter group of the Tehreek-e-Taliban Pakistan (TTP) was involved in the Quetta blast, which killed 74 and injured 122 on Monday. He said that Afghan intelligence agency NDS is believed to be indirectly supporting such groups as well as the Indian intelligence agency RAW.

"Arrested RAW agent Kulbhushan Yadav was not alone, he was working through an elaborate network,? he said, adding that investigations were underway to round up the agent's network.

Sartaj Aziz said that a dossier on Yadav's activities in Pakistan would be ready before September and would be presented at the next UN General Assembly session.

He stressed the importance of a good working relationship between the Inter Services Intelligences (ISI) and the Afghan intelligence agency NDS, saying that it would help eliminate mistrust between the parties.

"We will increase communication with Afghanistan at all levels. Border management with Afghanistan is necessary,? he said.

The advisor said Pakistan had written to the UN Human Rights Council on human rights violations in Indian Occupied Kashmir and requested that a fact-finding mission be sent to the region.

He further said that global concern over the Kashmir issue was intensifying.

"If there is no Kashmir issue then why is there a media blackout in Occupied Kashmir?? he asked.

"If there is no issue then why are all the leaders there under house arrest?"

According to reports the Indian prime minister will not be attending the UN General Assembly session, he said, adding that there was no possibility of a meeting with the Indian delegation or the Indian PM at the session.

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Pakistan ready to invite India for dialogue on Kashmir issue: Sartaj Aziz

ISLAMABAD: Pakistan is ready to invite India for a dialogue focused on the Kashmir issue, the prime minister's Foreign Affairs Advisor said Friday, adding that the country's Foreign Secretary would write a letter to his Indian counterpart in this regard.

Briefing the media in Islamabad today, Foreign Affairs Advisor Sartaj Aziz said the Kashmir issue would be on top of Pakistan’s agenda during forthcoming session of the UN General Assembly.

He said Foreign Secretary Aizaz Ahmed Chaudhry would soon write to his Indian counterpart to formally invite India for a dialogue on the issue.

Sartaj said there were indications that a splinter group of the Tehreek-e-Taliban Pakistan (TTP) was involved in the Quetta blast, which killed 74 and injured 122 on Monday. He said that Afghan intelligence agency NDS is believed to be indirectly supporting such groups as well as the Indian intelligence agency RAW.

"Arrested RAW agent Kulbhushan Yadav was not alone, he was working through an elaborate network,” he said, adding that investigations were underway to round up the agent's network.

Sartaj Aziz said that a dossier on Yadav's activities in Pakistan would be ready before September and would be presented at the next UN General Assembly session.

He stressed the importance of a good working relationship between the Inter Services Intelligences (ISI) and the Afghan intelligence agency NDS, saying that it would help eliminate mistrust between the parties.

"We will increase communication with Afghanistan at all levels. Border management with Afghanistan is necessary,” he said.

The advisor said Pakistan had written to the UN Human Rights Council on human rights violations in Indian Occupied Kashmir and requested that a fact-finding mission be sent to the region.

He further said that global concern over the Kashmir issue was intensifying.

"If there is no Kashmir issue then why is there a media blackout in Occupied Kashmir?” he asked.

"If there is no issue then why are all the leaders there under house arrest?"

According to reports the Indian prime minister will not be attending the UN General Assembly session, he said, adding that there was no possibility of a meeting with the Indian delegation or the Indian PM at the session.

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Greenland sharks may live 400 years, researchers say

MIAMI: Greenland sharks are the Earth?s longest-lived vertebrates ? or creatures with a spine ? with a lifespan that can last as long as 400 years, international researchers said Thursday.

Their slow growth rate -- about one centimeter per year -- contributes to their exceptionally long lives, beating out other well-known centenarians of the animal world such as the bowhead whale and the Galapagos tortoise.

In fact, only one species of clam is known to live longer, said the study in the journal Science, adding, "The life expectancy of the Greenland shark is exceeded only by that of the ocean quahog (Arctica islandica, 507 years)."

Known formally as Somniosus microcephalus, the Greenland sharks are the largest fish native to Arctic waters.

They also take a very long time to reach sexual maturity -- about 150 years, said the report.

The study relied on radiocarbon dating techniques, applied to the eye lenses of 28 females caught unintentionally by fishermen seeking other species.

Researchers can learn about the age of marine creatures by finding traces of atomic radiation in their tissues, resulting from atmospheric tests of thermonuclear weapons since the mid-1950s.

They found that the two largest sharks in this study, at 493 cm (16 feet) and 502 cm (16.5 feet) in length, "were estimated to be roughly 335 and 392 years old, respectively."

The Greenland sharks? average lifespan is believed to be about 272 years, said the study led by researchers at the University of Copenhagen.

Co-authors came from the Greenland Institute of Natural Resources, the National Aquarium Denmark, the Arctic University of Norway, Indiana University-South Bend, the University of Oxford, and the Virginia Institute of Marine Science.

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Putin dismisses powerful chief of staff

MOSCOW: Russian President Vladimir Putin on Friday unexpectedly dismissed his close ally and powerful chief of staff Sergei Ivanov, in the highest-level change inside the Kremlin in several years.

The Kremlin said in a statement that Putin had "decreed to relieve Ivanov of his duties" and handed him a job as a special representative for conservation, environmental and transportation issues.

Ivanov ? who served together with Putin in the Soviet-era KGB spy agency ? was replaced by his deputy Anton Vaino.

Russian state-media quickly aired footage of Putin thanking a smiling Ivanov for his work and presenting the move as a mutual decision.

"I remember well our agreement about the fact you had asked not to be in this area of work as the head of the presidential administration for more than four years," Putin said.

"This is why I am sympathetic to your desire to move on to another field."

Ivanov, a reputed hawk who served as defence minister from 2001 to 2007, was appointed Kremlin chief of staff in late 2011, months ahead of Putin´s 2012 re-election.

Ivanov pledged to work "actively, dynamically and effectively" in his new position. He will remain a member of Russia's powerful security council.

His replacement Vaino, a 44-year-old ex-diplomat, has served as his deputy since 2012.

Many observers had considered Ivanov a leading candidate to take over from Putin as president when his second term ended in 2008.

But the Kremlin strongman handed over the top job to current Prime Minister Dmitry Medvedev before reclaiming it in 2012.

Ivanov's dismissal comes as Russia gears for parliamentary elections next month against a backdrop of economic crisis caused by Western sanctions over the crisis in Ukraine and falling oil prices.

Putin recently reshuffled a string of top regional officials in a move experts say is aimed at helping the Kremlin shore up the vote across the country.

Russia is set to hold its next presidential election in 2018. Putin is widely expected to run again for a new term.

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Plane tickets of Ayyan, Bilawal bought from same account: Nisar

ISLAMABAD: Interior Minister Chaudhary Nisar Ali Khan on Friday said that the plane tickets of Model Ayyan Ali and Pakistan People?s Party (PPP) chairman are purchased from the same account.

Speaking to newsmen in Islamabad, he said, ?Few people came and asked to take back case against Ayyan Ali and also allow bail for Dr Asim. Then there can be peace between you and PPP.?

?I said to them Dr Asim case was with NAB and the current prosecutor general was appointed during your tenure.?

Talking about Ayyan Ali, he said, ?Who is defending this girl? Those who speak the most against me?

He said that plane tickets of Ayyan and Bilawal were being bought from the same account.

'Pakistanis cannot remain silent over atrocities in occupied Kashmir'

The minister said dialogue is the only option for Pakistan and India to resolve their issues, but India always closed the door for talks and also maligned Pakistan.

He said no Pakistani can remain silent over the atrocities being committed against the people of the occupied Kashmir by the Indian forces. The people of Pakistan are emotionally attached with the Kashmiris and rightly protested against the recent violence of the Indian forces in the occupied Kashmir.

Referring to the Indian Home Minister's early departure before the conclusion of the recent SAARC Interior Ministers' conference in Islamabad, Chaudhry Nisar Ali Khan said he only defended his country.

The minister said he as a Pakistani responded to the disgraceful remarks of the Indian Minister about Pakistan.

'Refuting wrong impression about security agencies my duty'

Nisar said the world has recognised Pakistan's successes in the war on terrorism.

?Terrorists are on the run, and they are desperately hitting soft targets. Twenty thousand intelligence-based operations have been carried out, which helped to prevent several terrorist attacks?, he added

He regretted that the terrorists are getting support from across the border.

Interior minister said the opposition is not serious in measures against corruption, but it is exploiting the issue to secure political vested interests.     

?Undue criticism of the security agencies is no service to the country. It is my duty as Interior Minister to refute the wrong impression created about the security agencies.?

?Barrett not a spy?

Nisar said that American blacklisted national Matthew Barrett will be deported in the next three days in the light of the findings of the joint investigation team's report. 

He said the findings did not suggest that Matthew Barrett was a spy, but he was found in objectionable activities.

The minister said the American national was blacklisted by Pakistan in 2011, and deported. But despite that he was issued visa by Pakistani consulate in Houston.

He said action is being taken against the officials, who committed negligence in issuing visa to Matthew Barrett. However, the one who identified him will be given appreciation prize.

Referring to the verification campaign of computerised national identity cards, Chaudhry Nisar Ali Khan said over thirty-one million cards have been verified. He said thirty thousand intruders have been identified so far, who have been blocked. They will be unblocked if they were verified; however, in the case of non-verification, action will be taken against them after August 31.

 He appealed to the people and the media to make this national campaign a success.

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Plane tickets of Ayyan, Bilawal bought from same account: Nisar

ISLAMABAD: Interior Minister Chaudhary Nisar Ali Khan on Friday said that the plane tickets of Model Ayyan Ali and Pakistan People’s Party (PPP) chairman are purchased from the same account.

Speaking to newsmen in Islamabad, he said, “Few people came and asked to take back case against Ayyan Ali and also allow bail for Dr Asim. Then there can be peace between you and PPP.”

“I said to them Dr Asim case was with NAB and the current prosecutor general was appointed during your tenure.”

Talking about Ayyan Ali, he said, “Who is defending this girl? Those who speak the most against me”

He said that plane tickets of Ayyan and Bilawal were being bought from the same account.

'Pakistanis cannot remain silent over atrocities in occupied Kashmir'

The minister said dialogue is the only option for Pakistan and India to resolve their issues, but India always closed the door for talks and also maligned Pakistan.

He said no Pakistani can remain silent over the atrocities being committed against the people of the occupied Kashmir by the Indian forces. The people of Pakistan are emotionally attached with the Kashmiris and rightly protested against the recent violence of the Indian forces in the occupied Kashmir.

Referring to the Indian Home Minister's early departure before the conclusion of the recent SAARC Interior Ministers' conference in Islamabad, Chaudhry Nisar Ali Khan said he only defended his country.

The minister said he as a Pakistani responded to the disgraceful remarks of the Indian Minister about Pakistan.

'Refuting wrong impression about security agencies my duty'

Nisar said the world has recognised Pakistan's successes in the war on terrorism.

“Terrorists are on the run, and they are desperately hitting soft targets. Twenty thousand intelligence-based operations have been carried out, which helped to prevent several terrorist attacks”, he added

He regretted that the terrorists are getting support from across the border.

Interior minister said the opposition is not serious in measures against corruption, but it is exploiting the issue to secure political vested interests.     

“Undue criticism of the security agencies is no service to the country. It is my duty as Interior Minister to refute the wrong impression created about the security agencies.”

‘Barrett not a spy’

Nisar said that American blacklisted national Matthew Barrett will be deported in the next three days in the light of the findings of the joint investigation team's report. 

He said the findings did not suggest that Matthew Barrett was a spy, but he was found in objectionable activities.

The minister said the American national was blacklisted by Pakistan in 2011, and deported. But despite that he was issued visa by Pakistani consulate in Houston.

He said action is being taken against the officials, who committed negligence in issuing visa to Matthew Barrett. However, the one who identified him will be given appreciation prize.

Referring to the verification campaign of computerised national identity cards, Chaudhry Nisar Ali Khan said over thirty-one million cards have been verified. He said thirty thousand intruders have been identified so far, who have been blocked. They will be unblocked if they were verified; however, in the case of non-verification, action will be taken against them after August 31.

 He appealed to the people and the media to make this national campaign a success.

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Lack of progress on NAP affecting Zarb-e-Azb: COAS

RAWALPINDI: Chief of Army Staff General Raheel Sharif has said that lack of progress on the National Action Plan is affecting the consolidation phase of military operation Zarb-e-Azb.

The "National Action Plan is central to achievements of our objectives and its lack of progress is affecting the consolidation phase of Ops Zarb-e-Azb," said the army chief, according to a statement released by the Inter-Services Public Relations

The army chief said this during a high-level meeting at the General Headquarters (GHQ) today to review the progress of Operation Zarb-e-Azb and the National Action Plan (NAP).

"Unless all prongs deliver meaningfully and all inadequacies are addressed, remnants of terrorism would continue to simmer and long term peace and stability would remain a distant dream.

"We have come a long way in fighting this war on terror and reversing the tide towards eliminating this scourge from our soil. The whole nation has been standing alongside its security forces," he said.

But the military's top commander pointed towards "distracting and inciting comments and theories by some quarters" which were undermining the national efforts in the fight against terrorism.

"While there has been considerable improvement in security environment and dividends have started to reach masses, any distracting and inciting comments and theories by some quarters are unhelpful and undermining the overall national effort," he said.

The army chief pointed out that a synergized national response was needed to successfully conclude those efforts.

"I salute the people of Pakistan, all security forces and intelligence agencies, for their tireless efforts and sacrifices to bring about peace and stability," he was quoted as saying.  

The high-level meeting was attended by Principle Staff Officers (PSOs), the Director-General of the Inter-Services Intelligence (ISI) and the Corps Commander Rawalpindi.

The forum reaffirmed its resolve to continue to contribute towards full spectrum national security, said the ISPR statement.

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Lack of progress on NAP affecting Zarb-e-Azb: COAS

RAWALPINDI: Chief of Army Staff General Raheel Sharif has said that lack of progress on the National Action Plan is affecting the consolidation phase of military operation Zarb-e-Azb.

The "National Action Plan is central to achievements of our objectives and its lack of progress is affecting the consolidation phase of Ops Zarb-e-Azb," said the army chief, according to a statement released by the Inter-Services Public Relations

The army chief said this during a high-level meeting at the General Headquarters (GHQ) today to review the progress of Operation Zarb-e-Azb and the National Action Plan (NAP).

"Unless all prongs deliver meaningfully and all inadequacies are addressed, remnants of terrorism would continue to simmer and long term peace and stability would remain a distant dream.

"We have come a long way in fighting this war on terror and reversing the tide towards eliminating this scourge from our soil. The whole nation has been standing alongside its security forces," he said.

But the military's top commander pointed towards "distracting and inciting comments and theories by some quarters" which were undermining the national efforts in the fight against terrorism.

"While there has been considerable improvement in security environment and dividends have started to reach masses, any distracting and inciting comments and theories by some quarters are unhelpful and undermining the overall national effort," he said.

The army chief pointed out that a synergized national response was needed to successfully conclude those efforts.

"I salute the people of Pakistan, all security forces and intelligence agencies, for their tireless efforts and sacrifices to bring about peace and stability," he was quoted as saying.  

The high-level meeting was attended by Principle Staff Officers (PSOs), the Director-General of the Inter-Services Intelligence (ISI) and the Corps Commander Rawalpindi.

The forum reaffirmed its resolve to continue to contribute towards full spectrum national security, said the ISPR statement.

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Fielding lapses cost England against Pakistan

LONDON: England dropped three catches as Pakistan fought hard in the fourth Test at The Oval on Friday.

At lunch on the second day, Pakistan were 97 for two in reply to England?s first innings 328, a deficit of 231 runs.

Azhar Ali was 36 not out and Asad Shafiq 24 not out, with Pakistan bidding to level the four-match series at 2-2.

Pakistan resumed on three for one following the loss of opener Sami Aslam late on Thursday after England?s middle-order, led by Moeen Ali?s 108, had bailed the side out from their latest top-order collapse that saw them slump to 74 for four and 110 for five after captain Alastair Cook had won the toss.

Azhar, promoted to open after his century during England?s 141-run win in the third Test at Edgbaston, and nightwatchman Yasir Shah were both nought not out.

Azhar pushed James Anderson through the covers for four and Shah hid two good fours, through cover and long-on, off Stuart Broad.

Chris Woakes was denied his customary wicket in the first over of a spell when Shah, on 21, edged the all-rounder to gully only for Alex Hales to drop the two-handed catch.

But having done his nightwatchman duty by getting through the first hour, Shah fell for 26 when he nicked fast bowler Steven Finn to second slip, where Joe Root held a juggling catch that ended a stand of 49 and left Pakistan 52 for two.

Shafiq, promoted up the order despite a pair at Edgbaston, avoided a third straight nought by getting off the mark with a cover-driven four off Finn.

England had to re-arrange their cordon after James Vince, usually at third slip for the quicks, was unable to field close in after suffering a finger injury trying to take a catch at Edgbaston.

Hampshire batsman Vince, still playing at The Oval but stationed away from the bat, saw his place at third slip taken by Anderson when England?s all-time leading wicket-taker wasn?t bowling.

Poor close catching had mainly been a Pakistan problem this series but Woakes was again denied a wicket when a diving Anderson at third slip dropped Shafiq on seven.

Azhar, on 35, was then given a reprieve when he pushed a drive back at Finn only for the 6ft 7in bowler to drop the low chance despite getting both hands to the ball, with Pakistan then 91 for two.

With blue and sunny skies, allied to a good pitch, offering some of the best batting conditions of the series, it was a miss England could ill afford.

Flags above The Oval pavilion flew at half-mast in honour of legendary Pakistan batsman Hanif Mohammad, who died aged 81 on Thursday.

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Fielding lapses cost England against Pakistan

LONDON: England dropped three catches as Pakistan fought hard in the fourth Test at The Oval on Friday.

At lunch on the second day, Pakistan were 97 for two in reply to England’s first innings 328, a deficit of 231 runs.

Azhar Ali was 36 not out and Asad Shafiq 24 not out, with Pakistan bidding to level the four-match series at 2-2.

Pakistan resumed on three for one following the loss of opener Sami Aslam late on Thursday after England’s middle-order, led by Moeen Ali’s 108, had bailed the side out from their latest top-order collapse that saw them slump to 74 for four and 110 for five after captain Alastair Cook had won the toss.

Azhar, promoted to open after his century during England’s 141-run win in the third Test at Edgbaston, and nightwatchman Yasir Shah were both nought not out.

Azhar pushed James Anderson through the covers for four and Shah hid two good fours, through cover and long-on, off Stuart Broad.

Chris Woakes was denied his customary wicket in the first over of a spell when Shah, on 21, edged the all-rounder to gully only for Alex Hales to drop the two-handed catch.

But having done his nightwatchman duty by getting through the first hour, Shah fell for 26 when he nicked fast bowler Steven Finn to second slip, where Joe Root held a juggling catch that ended a stand of 49 and left Pakistan 52 for two.

Shafiq, promoted up the order despite a pair at Edgbaston, avoided a third straight nought by getting off the mark with a cover-driven four off Finn.

England had to re-arrange their cordon after James Vince, usually at third slip for the quicks, was unable to field close in after suffering a finger injury trying to take a catch at Edgbaston.

Hampshire batsman Vince, still playing at The Oval but stationed away from the bat, saw his place at third slip taken by Anderson when England’s all-time leading wicket-taker wasn’t bowling.

Poor close catching had mainly been a Pakistan problem this series but Woakes was again denied a wicket when a diving Anderson at third slip dropped Shafiq on seven.

Azhar, on 35, was then given a reprieve when he pushed a drive back at Finn only for the 6ft 7in bowler to drop the low chance despite getting both hands to the ball, with Pakistan then 91 for two.

With blue and sunny skies, allied to a good pitch, offering some of the best batting conditions of the series, it was a miss England could ill afford.

Flags above The Oval pavilion flew at half-mast in honour of legendary Pakistan batsman Hanif Mohammad, who died aged 81 on Thursday.

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Indian spy presence in Balochistan was indirect declaration of war: Lt-Gen Amir Riaz

QUETTA: Commander Southern Command Lt General Aamir Riaz on Friday said the arrest of Indian spy Kulbhushan Yadav from Balochistan was an indirect war declaration from India.

Speaking to newsmen in Quetta Press Club, he said that conspiracies were being hatched against Pakistan externally as well as internally.

“There were many people in this country who have gone astray and are involved in terrorism in the name of religion”, he said.

Kulbhushan Yadav was arrested by intelligence agencies in Balochistan in March and he was later shifted to Islamabad for investigation.

During preliminary investigations, the undercover Indian agent had revealed that his main agenda was to sabotage the China-Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC) through propaganda and to create disharmony among the Baloch nationalist political parties.

In a video confession that military spokesman Gen Asim Bajwa played during a press conference, Yadav said: “I am still a serving officer in the Indian Navy and will be due for retirement in 2022."

“By 2002, I commenced intelligence operations. In 2003, I established a small business in Chabahar in Iran. As I was able to achieve undetected existence and visits to Karachi in 2003 and 2004 and, having done some basic assignments within India for RAW, I was picked up by RAW in 2013,” he added.

The Indian spy said that he had been directing various activities in Karachi and Balochistan at the behest of RAW since 2013. He also confessed of playing a role in deteriorating law and order situation in Karachi.

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Indian spy presence in Balochistan was indirect declaration of war: Lt-Gen Amir Riaz

QUETTA: Commander Southern Command Lt General Aamir Riaz on Friday said the arrest of Indian spy Kulbhushan Yadav from Balochistan was an indirect war declaration from India.

Speaking to newsmen in Quetta Press Club, he said that conspiracies were being hatched against Pakistan externally as well as internally.

?There were many people in this country who have gone astray and are involved in terrorism in the name of religion?, he said.

Kulbhushan Yadav was arrested by intelligence agencies in Balochistan in March and he was later shifted to Islamabad for investigation.

During preliminary investigations, the undercover Indian agent had revealed that his main agenda was to sabotage the China-Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC) through propaganda and to create disharmony among the Baloch nationalist political parties.

In a video confession that military spokesman Gen Asim Bajwa played during a press conference, Yadav said: ?I am still a serving officer in the Indian Navy and will be due for retirement in 2022."

?By 2002, I commenced intelligence operations. In 2003, I established a small business in Chabahar in Iran. As I was able to achieve undetected existence and visits to Karachi in 2003 and 2004 and, having done some basic assignments within India for RAW, I was picked up by RAW in 2013,? he added.

The Indian spy said that he had been directing various activities in Karachi and Balochistan at the behest of RAW since 2013. He also confessed of playing a role in deteriorating law and order situation in Karachi.

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Twitter releases emoji for Pakistan's Independence Day

In a first, social networking website Twitter has released a special emoji for Pakistan's Independence Day. 

This is the first time ever that the social media giant has enabled a customised emoji for Pakistan's Independence Day.

Emoji is a small digital icon or symbol which is released on special occasions and through which happiness or passionate feelings can be expressed. Emojis are used to demonstrate emotions on social media and chatting. For instance, emojis are used to depict laughter, a smile or other sentiments being felt by the user.

The emoji which Twitter has released for Pakistan?s Independence Day ? with a green crescent, star and the Minar-e-Pakistan ? is meant to highlight the importance of that particular day.

Users can get the customised emojis by using the following hashtags:

#PKIndependenceDay

#IndependenceDayPK

#Pakistan

?????_?????#

#PakistanZindabad

#Aug14

 

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Twitter releases emoji for Pakistan's Independence Day

In a first, social networking website Twitter has released a special emoji for Pakistan's Independence Day. 

This is the first time ever that the social media giant has enabled a customised emoji for Pakistan's Independence Day.

Emoji is a small digital icon or symbol which is released on special occasions and through which happiness or passionate feelings can be expressed. Emojis are used to demonstrate emotions on social media and chatting. For instance, emojis are used to depict laughter, a smile or other sentiments being felt by the user.

The emoji which Twitter has released for Pakistan?s Independence Day ? with a green crescent, star and the Minar-e-Pakistan ? is meant to highlight the importance of that particular day.

Users can get the customised emojis by using the following hashtags:

#PKIndependenceDay

#IndependenceDayPK

#Pakistan

?????_?????#

#PakistanZindabad

#Aug14

 

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What to expect from Pakistan in the final Test at The Oval?

Several interesting twists and turns marked the opening day of the fourth and final match in the Pakistan-England Test series. Pakistan looked to be in the driving seat at The Oval after pacers tore through the England top order, reducing the hosts to 74-4 before lunch, but just when it looked Pakistan were finally going to avenge England for the back-to-back crushing defeats at Old Trafford and Edgbaston, England all-rounder Moeen Ali came to the side?s rescue.

Moeen?s brave ton guided England?s sinking ship to 328 ? a total that could be intimidating enough for Pakistan on The Oval?s green pitch.

So what went wrong for the tourists? And what can be done to get back on track? Mohammad Sufi, head of sports desk at Geo News, and sports anchor Danish Anis discuss what to expect from the team in this Facebook Live video.

As Mohammad Sufi and Danish point out, Pakistan?s fielding lapses cost the team dearly; Moeen Ali was dropped at 9 and 15. He then went on to score 108, clearly the highlight of England?s first innings.

Captain Alastair Cook?s decision to bat first on the green, swing-friendly pitch was risky, but Pakistan failed to capitalize on his decision. The fielding lapses, of course, didn?t help either.

As Mohammad Sufi notes, some courageous performance from Pakistan?s senior batsmen is long overdue. Younis Khan, as one viewer commented, owes the team a solid knock. It is high time for the batsman to justify his place in the side and set an example for the younger players.

It is not too late still, according to Mohammad Sufi, but the onus lies on the batsmen. High expectations going into the second day of the Test, but history has favored Pakistan in London and we have to trust Captain Misbah?s leadership, he said.

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Police solves women stabbing mystery in Rawalpindi

RAWALPINDI: Residents in the Morgah Police Station limits breathe a sigh of relief as police finally got to the bottom of mysterious stabbing incidents targeting women which were reported last week.

An accused arrested by police on Friday confessed to stabbing several women after dark. A sharp weapon which he used for stabbing was also recovered from him.

A victim confirmed the identity of the attacker.

 The accused has attacked 32 women in the city since February, of whom one died while others were injured.

All of the attacks took place in the limits of Morgah police station, which include Kot Kalian and Rabia Bungalows.

In the latest attack, he reportedly stabbed a nurse to death and injured two others on Sunday night.  

Around 25 women were injured with a knife-like object in the first three weeks of February this year.

Six months later, four women were attacked last week. On Sunday night, three women were attacked of whom nurse Anum Naz succumbed to her wounds. 

 

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Police solves women stabbing mystery in Rawalpindi

RAWALPINDI: Residents in the Morgah Police Station limits breathe a sigh of relief as police finally got to the bottom of mysterious stabbing incidents targeting women which were reported last week.

An accused arrested by police on Friday confessed to stabbing several women after dark. A sharp weapon which he used for stabbing was also recovered from him.

A victim confirmed the identity of the attacker.

 The accused has attacked 32 women in the city since February, of whom one died while others were injured.

All of the attacks took place in the limits of Morgah police station, which include Kot Kalian and Rabia Bungalows.

In the latest attack, he reportedly stabbed a nurse to death and injured two others on Sunday night.  

Around 25 women were injured with a knife-like object in the first three weeks of February this year.

Six months later, four women were attacked last week. On Sunday night, three women were attacked of whom nurse Anum Naz succumbed to her wounds. 

 

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PSX 100-index hits all-time high buoyed by renewed investor confidence

KARACHI: Pakistan Stock Exchange 100-index crossed the highest ever 40,000 points benchmark on Friday, as local and foreign investors asserted their confidence in the Pakistan stock market.

The 100-index made history as it hit an all-time high of 40,012 points at the start of trading today.

According to economic analyst Muzammil Aslam, increased buying of companies? shares by local and foreign investors has been observed following better-than-expected results announced by the companies in recent days.

Aslam said that the MSCI?s decision to upgrade Pakistan from the frontier to emerging market status has also renewed investor confidence in the country?s stock market. The US-based global index provider had announced on June 15 that Pakistan Index would be reclassified to the emerging market status, spurring increased foreign investment in the country?s stocks.

China-Pakistan Economic Corridor plans have also boosted confidence of investors.

On Thursday, Pakistan stocks edged up to a fresh record closing high led by banking stocks, dealers said.

The benchmark 100-share index of the Pakistan Stock Exchange closed 0.14 percent higher, or 55.72 points, at 39,861.60. "Bankings stocks performed on the day, which led the market to close at an all-time high," said Hammad Aman, manager, equity sales at Topline Securities Pvt Ltd.

United Bank Ltd gained 3.90 percent, Habib Bank Ltd increased by 0.35 percent and Habib Metropolitan Bank Ltd rose 1.67 percent.

The rupee ended stronger at 104.52/104.59 against the dollar, compared with Tuesday´s close of 104.57/104.61. Overnight rates in the money market fell to 5.85 percent from Tuesday´s close of 5.90 percent.

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US citizen Mathew Barret remanded for 14 days in judicial custody

RAWALPINDI: A local court remanded US citizen Mathew Barret for 14 days in judicial custody on Friday.

During the proceedings today, the investigation officer told the court that the official at the consulate who gave Barret a Pakistan visa should be interrogated.

The defense alleged that the Federal Investigation Agency had been bribed and was unable to produce any witnesses.

The FIA on Saturday arrested an American citizen, who was blacklisted over espionage of nuclear installations in Pakistan, upon his entry to Islamabad.

Mathew Craig Barret, a US citizen, was blacklisted and deported from Pakistan in 2011 on his objectionable activities. The US citizen was later arrested from a guesthouse from the capital city the same day upon his entry into Islamabad.

In a statement to the court Barret stated that he had arrived in Pakistan on visa issued by Pakistani Consulate in Houston.

About his previous visit, Mathew said he had arrived in Pakistan to visit his in-laws. He denied the charges of being a spy, saying he was not involved in such activities.

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US citizen Mathew Barret remanded for 14 day in judicial custody

RAWALPINDI: A local court remanded US citizen Mathew Barret for 14 days in judicial custody on Friday.

During the proceedings today, the investigation officer told the court that the official at consulate who gave Barret a Pakistan visa should be interrogated.

The defense alleged that the Federal Investigation Agency had been bribed and was unable to produce any witnesses.

The FIA on Saturday arrested an American citizen, who was blacklisted over espionage of nuclear installations in Pakistan, upon his entry to Islamabad.

Mathew Craig Barret, a US citizen, was blacklisted and deported from Pakistan in 2011 on his objectionable activities. The US citizen was later arrested from a guesthouse from the capital city the same day upon his entry into Islamabad.

In a statement to the court Barret stated that he had arrived in Pakistan on visa issued by Pakistani Consulate in Houston.

About his previous visit, Mathew said he had arrived in Pakistan to visit his in-laws. He denied the charges of being a spy, saying he was not involved in such activities.

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Gang guised as hospital staff which kidnapped babies busted in Peshawar

PESHAWAR: Police on Friday arrested a gang which kidnapped newborn babies from hospitals.

Hospital staff which included female doctors and nurses was part of the gang, police said.

The gang would take away newborn babies and hand over dead babies to parents. The kidnapped babies were then sold for Rs70,000 to Rs300,000, police said.

At least five women and two men are part of the gang but more people were expected to be involved, police said.

Security forces were able to recover one kidnapped baby. Search operations and arrests are underway to investigate the incident.

In the past several cases have been reported where parents allege that their newborn babies were kidnapped from hospitals. Last year in January a baby was kidnapped from Pakistan Institute of Medical Science, parents alleged.

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Result tampering issue: Anti-corruption team ends raid on Karachi Inter Board

KARACHI: The Anti-corruption Department officials, who earlier raided the Board of Intermediate Education Karachi over result tampering, on Friday ended their three-day operation in the building.

According to sources, one employ of the Inter Board office was arrested and some documents were also confiscated in the raid.

An Anti-corruption court today ordered to send the under custody board office official, Adil Anwar, to jail on judicial remand.

The court was displeased over delay in presenting the accused before it.

The court issued a show-cause notice to investigation officer Jamil Ahmed over the matter.

“The suspect was arrested on August 9 but presented in the court on August 11,” the anti-corruption court remarked.

The sources informed that the anti-corruption team can conduct another raid in the board office in order to finalise a decision.

The move had also led to a protest by its employees on Thursday, who had stopped work and locked up offices.

"We have, so far, found 102 cases in which the results were tampered, along with evidences," Ghulam Qadir Thebo, chairman of Anti-Corruption Department had said.

The administration of the Inter Board had rejected the allegations as baseless.

The raid, however, jeopardized the future of thousands of students of the pre-medical group, whose results might possibly be delayed in the wake of investigations.

 

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Is your water bottle dirtier than the toilet?

With most single use bottles harmful to the environment, conscious individuals opt for a reusable one instead.

Researchers in the US have discovered those bottles could potentially make you sick.

The discovery came after health experts swabbed 3 bottles each of the four types of reusable bottles people most commonly used; the slide-top, the squeeze-top, the screw-top and the straw-top.

Swabs from each bottle, used by an athlete for one week without being washed, were sent to a renowned lab specializing in the analysis of air and surface samples for bacteria.

The results were shocking. Certain types had more than 300,000 colony-forming units per square centimeter (CFU/sq cm).

To put things in perspective, the average toilet seat has about 27 CFU/sq cm.  Yes, let that sink in for a minute, but don?t be quick to boycott reusable bottles altogether just yet.

Bacteria are present all around us, some are harmless some are beneficial while certain others can make you fall sick.

While reusable bottles have high presence of potentially harmful bacteria, instead of tossing the reusable water bottle, maybe its time to start giving that bottle a hot wash everyday instead of letting it sit half full in your gym bag or your child's school bag.

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Result tampering issue: Anti-corruption team ends raid on Karachi Inter Board

KARACHI: The Anti-corruption Department officials, who earlier raided the Board of Intermediate Education Karachi over result tampering, on Friday ended their three-day operation in the building.

According to sources, one employ of the Inter Board office was arrested and some documents were also confiscated in the raid.

An Anti-corruption court today ordered to send the under custody board office official, Adil Anwar, to jail on judicial remand.

The court was displeased over delay in presenting the accused before it.

The court issued a show-cause notice to investigation officer Jamil Ahmed over the matter.

?The suspect was arrested on August 9 but presented in the court on August 11,? the anti-corruption court remarked.

The sources informed that the anti-corruption team can conduct another raid in the board office in order to finalise a decision.

The move had also led to a protest by its employees on Thursday, who had stopped work and locked up offices.

"We have, so far, found 102 cases in which the results were tampered, along with evidences," Ghulam Qadir Thebo, chairman of Anti-Corruption Department had said.

The administration of the Inter Board had rejected the allegations as baseless.

The raid, however, jeopardized the future of thousands of students of the pre-medical group, whose results might possibly be delayed in the wake of investigations.

 

Read More

Is your water bottle dirtier than the toilet?

With most single use bottles harmful to the environment, conscious individuals opt for a reusable one instead.

Researchers in the US have discovered those bottles could potentially make you sick.

The discovery came after health experts swabbed 3 bottles each of the four types of reusable bottles people most commonly used; the slide-top, the squeeze-top, the screw-top and the straw-top.

Swabs from each bottle, used by an athlete for one week without being washed, were sent to a renowned lab specializing in the analysis of air and surface samples for bacteria.

The results were shocking. Certain types had more than 300,000 colony-forming units per square centimeter (CFU/sq cm).

To put things in perspective, the average toilet seat has about 27 CFU/sq cm.  Yes, let that sink in for a minute, but don?t be quick to boycott reusable bottles altogether just yet.

Bacteria are present all around us, some are harmless some are beneficial while certain others can make you fall sick.

While reusable bottles have high presence of potentially harmful bacteria, instead of tossing the reusable water bottle, maybe its time to start giving that bottle a hot wash everyday instead of letting it sit half full in your gym bag or your child's school bag.

Read More

Six terrorists arrested in combing operation near Rawalpindi

RAWALPINDI: Intelligence agencies conducted a combing operation on Friday at Gujar Khan and Kallar Syedan.

According to a statement by the Inter-service Public Relations (ISPR) six terrorists including two commanders have been arrested.

Weapons and IEDs were recovered from them.

Combing operations will be conducted till terrorists are arrested and their hideouts are eliminated, the ISPR said.

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Mobile services suspended in Indian occupied Kashmir

SRINAGAR: Indian authorities suspended all mobile telephony services except postpaid connections of state-run BSNL citing possible protests after Friday prayers.

?Mobile telephony services have been snapped in the entire Valley. Only postpaid connections of BSNL are working,? a police official said, as reported by the Indian Express.

Services were suspended at midnight.

The suspension comes after Kashmiris protests against Indian atrocities in the valley after Friday prayers last week. The people were killed and several hundred were injured at the hands of Indian forces.

Mobile services were suspended last month on the 15th after freedom fighter Burhan Wani was martyred by Indian forces on the 8th of July.

The following day internet facility in the valley was also suspended and has remained so even on the 35th day.

While postpaid mobile services were restored later in July, postpaid consumers were only granted incoming call facilities.

Since July many dozens of Kashmiri youth have lost their eyesight after Indian forces resorted to using pellet guns on unarmed civilians.

In the week following Burhan Wani?s martyrdom, a doctor treating victims of pellet injuried told AFP, "Most of them have lost their eyesight in one eye. They are going to walk out of the hospital as one-eyed boys."

Doctors at the Shri Maharaja Hari Singh hospital have treated over 360 pellet victims since July 8th ? when Burhan Wani was martyred ? and have performed over 400 eye surgeries.

Devastated by the atrocities, the doctors protested in Kashmir on Wednesday at the Government Medical College Srinagar holding up placards reading ?Hear our silence, see our blindness? and ?Stop killing innocent kids?.

 

 

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Six terrorists arrested in combing operation near Rawalpindi

RAWALPINDI: Intelligence agencies conducted a combing operation on Friday at Gujar Khan and Kallar Syedan.

According to a statement by the Inter-service Public Relations (ISPR) six terrorists including two commanders have been arrested.

Weapons and IEDs were recovered from them.

Combing operations will be conducted till terrorists are arrested and their hideouts are eliminated, the ISPR said.

Read More