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                        <title>Punjab News Updates and Insights - The Express Tribune</title>
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                        <link>https://tribune.com.pk</link>
                        <description>The Express Tribune keeps you up to date with all the latest happenings from Pakistan and across the world!</description>
                        <lastBuildDate>Tue, 22 Sep 26 02:08:18 +0500</lastBuildDate>
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			<title>Imran's sisters challenge 30-day detention in LHC, seek immediate release</title>
			<link>https://tribune.com.pk/story/2630519/pti-says-more-of-imrans-sisters-family-detained-by-police-in-lahore</link>
			<comments>https://tribune.com.pk/story/2630519/pti-says-more-of-imrans-sisters-family-detained-by-police-in-lahore#comments</comments>
			<pubDate>Mon, 21 Sep 26 05:22:41 +0500</pubDate>
			<dc:creator>
				<![CDATA[Rana Yasif]]>
			</dc:creator>
			<category><![CDATA[Punjab]]></category><category><![CDATA[Lahore]]></category><category><![CDATA[Pakistan]]></category>
			<guid isPermaLink="false">https://tribune.com.pk/?p=2630519</guid>
			<description>
				<![CDATA[Party says founder's family members placed in armoured vehicle, taken to undisclosed location]]>
			</description>
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				<![CDATA[A petition was filed before the Lahore High Court (LHC) on Monday challenging the 30-day detention orders issued against Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) founder Imran Khan&rsquo;s sisters Aleema Khan, Dr Uzma Khan and Noreen Niazi under Section 3 of the Maintenance of Public Order (MPO) Ordinance, seeking their immediate release.

The petition was filed by Aleema&rsquo;s son, Shahraiz Khan, through advocate Rana Mudasar Umar, challenging the detention of his mother and her two sisters. It sought the annulment of the detention orders and the immediate release of all three women.

The arrests came as authorities stepped up a crackdown on PTI in response to the party&#39;s planned September 27 march in Islamabad.

The petition contended that the detention order issued by the Lahore deputy commissioner on September 20 was illegal and unlawful, alleging that Aleema was picked up while travelling with her driver for personal work and that there was no public gathering or situation suggesting any threat to public order.

According to the petition, Aleema was detained along with her driver, Muhammad Ameer, and both are currently confined at Lahore Central Jail.

The petitioner claimed that she was a peaceful and law-abiding citizen and had never engaged in any activity prejudicial to public safety, public interest or maintenance of public order.

Read: Imran&#39;s sisters Uzma, Noreen also detained under MPO ahead of Sept 27 PTI protest

The plea further challenged the grounds cited for their detention, stating that they were allegedly linked to FIR No 96/23, but the relevant case was registered at Sarwar Road Police Station rather than Race Course Police Station.

It added that Aleema had sought pre-arrest bail in the case, which remained pending for around one and a half years, and that police had ultimately declared her innocent, observing that she was not present at the place of occurrence.

The petitioner alleged that despite this, she was subsequently detained on the basis of the same case, claiming that the detention order was issued on the verbal recommendation of local police and at the instigation of rivals.

The petition argued that the detention order did not identify any specific conduct by Aleema that could legally justify preventive detention or establish an actual threat to public order.

It further contended that vague allegations, political association, peaceful protest, or registration of criminal cases, by themselves, cannot establish such a threat.

It also said that no credible, specific or independently verifiable material was disclosed to establish the necessity of detention, while the order allegedly uses general and formulaic language without an individualised assessment of the detenue&rsquo;s conduct.

Read more: Naqvi warns PTI against Islamabad march, says governor&#39;s rule among options for K-P amid security concerns

The plea maintained that the grounds of detention must contain sufficient particulars to enable the detenue to make an effective representation and stated that the constitutional safeguards relating to communication of the grounds of detention were not properly observed.

The petitioner also argued that preventive detention cannot be used as punishment for an alleged past offence or as a substitute for ordinary criminal proceedings, and that no reasons were recorded to explain why ordinary legal proceedings or less restrictive measures were inadequate.

The petition asked the LHC to declare the detention order dated September 20 null and void. It also sought suspension of the operation of the detention order during pendency of the writ petition.

In the petition, the secretary, Home Department, Lahore deputy commissioner, capital city police officer and superintendent of Lahore Central Jail were made Respondents.

Imran&#39;s sisters detained

Earlier, police detained Uzma and Noreen, along with his nephews, for 30 days under the MPO Ordinance, a day after Aleema was detained under the same law.

Aleema was detained by authorities in Lahore under the same Section 3 of the MPO, and transferred to Kot Lakhpat Jail for 30 days.

According to an order available to The Express Tribune, dated September 20, the detention was based on reports submitted by the SP Civil Lines Division and the District Intelligence Branch, which alleged that the two women&rsquo;s activities were &ldquo;prejudicial to the public safety and maintenance of public order&rdquo;.

In the order, police and intelligence officials state that Niazi and Uzma had been involved in the May 9 protests and road blockades and had &ldquo;motivated the workers to damage public and Government property&rdquo;.

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The order further states that the two were &ldquo;again mobilising the workers through social media and public meetings to create law and order situation&rdquo; and were raising or chanting &ldquo;objectionable slogans amongst the general public against the Government/institution in order to provoke and incite them&rdquo;.

&ldquo;Accordingly multiple cases including 96/23 PS Race Course were registered,&rdquo; the order said, adding that the two women were &ldquo;potential dangers to public peace and tranquility&rdquo;.

The police reports recommended their detention under Section 3 of the Punjab Maintenance of Public Order Ordinance, 1960, for 30 days, saying this was necessary &ldquo;in order to keep the law &amp; order situation in the city intact&rdquo;.

The request was subsequently placed before the District Intelligence Committee at a meeting chaired by the Lahore deputy commissioner on September 20. The order said the matter was &ldquo;discussed in detail&rdquo; and that committee members &ldquo;endorsed the evidence/material provided/shared by the Police Department&rdquo;.

The committee then &ldquo;unanimously recommended that a detention order may be issued&rdquo; against Noreen and Uzma to maintain the law and order situation in Lahore, according to the order.

The deputy commissioner said that, after reviewing the material submitted by the Lahore police chief and the committee&rsquo;s recommendation, he was &ldquo;convinced&rdquo; that the presence of the two women &ldquo;at any public place will pose a grave threat to the public safety and will likely cause breach of public peace and public order&rdquo;.

The order directed that Noreen and Uzma &ldquo;be arrested and detained for a period of 30-days from the date of arrest&rdquo;, with their custody placed under the Superintendent of Central Jail, Kot Lakhpat.

The order said they &ldquo;shall be at liberty to make a representation to the Provincial Government against this order&rdquo;.

PTI decries detention

PTI members alleged that the two sisters of party founder Imran, along with their children, were arrested by Punjab Police. PTI Central Information Secretary Sheikh Waqas Akram said the family members had been placed in an armoured vehicle and were being taken to an undisclosed location.

&ldquo;Punjab Police have arrested both sisters of Imran Khan, along with their children and the sons of Aleema Khan. They have been placed in an armoured vehicle and are being taken to an unknown location,&rdquo; Akram said in a post on X early Monday.



Punjab Police have arrested both sisters of Imran Khan, along with their children and the sons of Aleema Khan Sahiba. They have been placed in an armoured vehicle and are being taken to an unknown location. Shame on the Government of Punjab and Punjab Police. This action is&hellip;
&mdash; Sheikh Waqas Akram (@SheikhWaqqas) September 20, 2026


In a separate statement, PTI condemned what it called the &quot;illegal and high-handed action&quot; of Punjab Police, alleging that the arrests amounted to an abuse of authority, a violation of fundamental rights and &quot;political victimisation.&quot;



Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf strongly condemns the illegal and high handed action of Punjab Police in arresting both sisters of former Prime Minister Imran Khan, their children, and the sons of Aleema Khan Sahiba.
According to information received, they have been placed in an&hellip;
&mdash; PTI (@PTIofficial) September 20, 2026


&quot;Targeting women and children of a political family in this manner exposes the true face of the Punjab Government and Punjab Police,&quot; the party said, adding that the conduct was &quot;illegal, unconstitutional&quot; and should be condemned.

The party demanded the immediate disclosure of the family members&#39; whereabouts, their safe return and their production before a court of law.

The allegations were followed by a series of posts from Imran&#39;s son Kasim Khan. &ldquo;This is a disgrace,&rdquo; Kasim wrote on X at around 2:55am. &ldquo;Now my Aunts Dr Uzma and Noreen, along with my cousins Shershah and Shahrez have now been abducted as well.&rdquo;



This is a disgrace.

Now my Aunts Dr. Uzma and Noureen, along with my cousins Shershah and Shahrez have now been abducted as well.

They have broken into my aunties and cousins houses and forced them
into vehicles with no explanation.

No reasons for arrest have been stated.

No&hellip; https://t.co/8uIrTAcVhV
&mdash; Kasim Khan (@Kasim_Khan_1999) September 20, 2026


He alleged that people had entered the homes of his aunts and cousins and forced them into vehicles without providing an explanation. &ldquo;They have broken into my aunties and cousins houses and forced them into vehicles with no explanation,&rdquo; he wrote. Kasim added, &ldquo;No reasons for arrest have been stated. No news has been released as to where they have been taken.&rdquo;

He called the alleged detentions &ldquo;criminal behaviour&rdquo; and &ldquo;inexcusable&rdquo;, and said: &ldquo;The Pakistani people are petrified of their own leaders.&rdquo;

The situation appeared to take another turn when Kasim said two of Shahrez&rsquo;s children, aged four and six, could also not be located.



And it get&rsquo;s worse.

My cousin Shahrez&rsquo;s 2 children of 4 and 6 years old are now missing.

There is no limit to their cruelty. Complete disregard for humanity. https://t.co/oUF0ummxOO
&mdash; Kasim Khan (@Kasim_Khan_1999) September 20, 2026


&ldquo;And it gets worse,&rdquo; he wrote in a subsequent post, adding, &ldquo;My cousin Shahrez&rsquo;s two children of 4 and 6 years are now missing. There is no limit to their cruelty. Complete disregard for humanity.&rdquo;

About an hour later, Kasim said he had received news that the children were safe, but alleged that two more of his cousins had been arrested.



Hearing news that my cousin&rsquo;s children are now safe 🙏.

Meanwhile two more of my cousins have been arrested. Azeem and Sakeenah.

No reasons given.

No location given. https://t.co/rkgzrw8Yul
&mdash; Kasim Khan (@Kasim_Khan_1999) September 20, 2026


&ldquo;Hearing news that my cousin&rsquo;s children are now safe,&rdquo; he wrote. &ldquo;Meanwhile, two more of my cousins have been arrested. Azeem and Sakeenah. No reasons given. No location given.&rdquo;

CM Afridi reaches Lahore 

Khyber-Pakhtunkhwa (K-P) Chief Minister Sohail Afridi also said he had travelled to Lahore after receiving information that Noreen and Dr Uzma were at risk of arrest.

In a video message recorded near Lahore on the motorway in the early hours of Monday, CM Afridi said he had been in contact with the two women and had asked them to remain inside their homes until he arrived.

&quot;I was informed that Noreen and Uzma Bibi were being arrested,&quot; he said. &quot;I left for Lahore to pick up Noreen Apa.&quot; The chief minister stated that he had told the two women he would take them to K-P, but alleged that unidentified people subsequently entered their homes and allegedly abducted them.

&quot;The kidnappers attacked their homes, vandalised their houses and have now taken them away,&quot; he said, adding that his contact with the two women had since been cut off. &quot;I am repeatedly trying to contact them, but I have not been able to get through,&quot; he said.

&quot;If you will not respect someone&#39;s mother, sister or daughter, if you will pick up the entire family of a former prime minister, then where will Pakistan go?&quot; CM Afridi questioned.

Read More: PTI to finalise capital march strategy

The chief minister also alleged that PTI workers and their families had faced similar treatment in recent days. He claimed that people in &quot;plain clothes&quot; had been tearing down PTI banners, burning party materials and entering its conventions.

He also alleged that a provincial minister had been targeted and an attempt made to abduct him, accusing authorities of violating the sanctity of homes.

Police also detained Imran&#39;s niece Hajra Niazi and her husband on Sunday, according to sources. They were later released after being taken to separate police stations.]]>
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			<title>Rahim Yar Khan's Khwaja Fareed University forms inquiry committee over harassment allegations</title>
			<link>https://tribune.com.pk/story/2630602/rahim-yar-khans-khwaja-fareed-university-forms-inquiry-committee-over-harassment-allegations</link>
			<comments>https://tribune.com.pk/story/2630602/rahim-yar-khans-khwaja-fareed-university-forms-inquiry-committee-over-harassment-allegations#comments</comments>
			<pubDate>Mon, 21 Sep 26 16:22:27 +0500</pubDate>
			<dc:creator>
				<![CDATA[Farooq Sindhu]]>
			</dc:creator>
			<category><![CDATA[Pakistan]]></category>
			<guid isPermaLink="false">https://tribune.com.pk/?p=2630602</guid>
			<description>
				<![CDATA[University says no formal complaint has been received and committee will examine screenshots and records]]>
			</description>
			<content:encoded>
				<![CDATA[Rahim Yar Khan&#39;s Khwaja Fareed University of Engineering and Information Technology (KFUEIT) has constituted an inquiry committee after screenshots and allegations concerning the alleged harassment of a female student by a university lecturer surfaced on social media.

According to the claims circulating online, the student accused the lecturer of sending inappropriate messages, allegedly pressuring her to meet him and threatening academic consequences if she refused.

The university, however, said no formal written complaint had so far been received from any student and that the committee would examine the screenshots, available information and other relevant records to establish the facts.

The student further claimed that she was allegedly offered better marks and grades and was repeatedly contacted through WhatsApp messages, SMS and phone calls.

She said she had retained records of the alleged communications and claimed that the matter had also been brought to the attention of the vice chancellor through email.

The allegations have not been independently verified.

Meanwhile, the KFUEIT administration said that some negative reports and claims concerning students and faculty members were circulating on social media. However, it said no formal written complaint had so far been received from any student in this regard.

Read More: &#39;I live in fear&#39;: 1.5 million Pakistani children sexually exploited online

The administration said it had constituted an inquiry committee to establish the facts surrounding the claims circulating online.

The committee would examine the available information, screenshots and other relevant records before submitting its recommendations to the university administration.

The university said that if a formal written complaint was submitted by a student or any other relevant person, the matter would be investigated in accordance with the applicable rules and procedures.

It added that necessary action would be taken if any violation was established.

The administration reiterated that providing students with a safe, healthy and conducive academic environment was among the university&rsquo;s priorities.

It said matters relating to academic standards and student safety would be dealt with according to university rules and regulations.]]>
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			<title>Imran's sister detained ahead of PTI protest</title>
			<link>https://tribune.com.pk/story/2630460/imrans-sister-detained-ahead-of-pti-protest</link>
			<comments>https://tribune.com.pk/story/2630460/imrans-sister-detained-ahead-of-pti-protest#comments</comments>
			<pubDate>Sun, 20 Sep 26 23:45:45 +0500</pubDate>
			<dc:creator>
				<![CDATA[Imran Adnan]]>
			</dc:creator>
			<category><![CDATA[Punjab]]></category>
			<guid isPermaLink="false">https://tribune.com.pk/?p=2630460</guid>
			<description>
				<![CDATA[Aleema sent to Kot Lakhpat Jail for 30 days, PTI founder's sister accused of inciting people]]>
			</description>
			<content:encoded>
				<![CDATA[Authorities in Punjab&#39;s provincial capital on Sunday detained former prime minister Imran Khan&#39;s septuagenarian sister Aleema Khan for 30 days and transferred her to Lahore Kot Lakhpat Jail amid a protest by the PTI and other parties in an opposition alliance, the TTAP.

The move occurred just a week before the PTI&#39;s planned protest march, scheduled to start on September 27, aimed at forcing the PML-N-led federal government to release Imran, the PTI founder, who has been detained in a Rawalpindi jail for over three years.

On Sunday, Lahore Deputy Commissioner (DC) Muhammad Ali Ijaz issued an order stating that Aleema Khan and a PTI leader, Muhammad Ameer, had been ordered to be arrested and detained for 30 days under Section 3 of the Punjab Maintenance of Public Order Ordinance, 1960.

The order stated that police and intelligence officials reported the two were involved in the May 9, 2023 protests and road blockades and allegedly motivated workers to damage public and government property.

It also said they were mobilising workers through social media and public meetings, raising slogans that could provoke or incite people. The DC said the District Intelligence Committee endorsed the material provided by the police and unanimously recommended their detention.

He said their presence at public places would pose a &quot;grave threat to the public safety&quot; and could lead to a breach of public peace and order. The detention order also stated that Aleema might make a representation against the detention to the provincial government.

Aleema&#39;s son Shahrez Khan wrote on X that his mother was abducted after leaving home on Sunday morning, adding that the family had had no contact with her or information about her whereabouts.

&quot;She is on bail in all cases against her in Lahore. We demand the government immediately disclose her whereabouts and ensure her safe return,&quot; he added.

Police also detained Hajra Niazi, Imran&#39;s niece, and her husband. According to sources, police officials stopped the couple at a checkpoint near Aleema&#39;s residence before taking them into custody.

The sources said the couple were subsequently taken to different police stations and remained in police custody for some time before being released. Hajra Niazi is the daughter of Imran&#39;s sister Noreen Niazi and sister of incarcerated PTI worker and Imran&#39;s nephew Hassan Niazi

Authorities in Islamabad also detained three PTI leaders from the federal capital&#39;s Red Zone near the Parliament Lodges on Sunday and later transferred them to an undisclosed location.

These detentions came ahead of the PTI protest which Interior Minister Mohsin Naqvi said on Friday the government would do everything to stop.

Opposition leaders strongly condemned the detention.

PTI Chairman Barrister Gohar Ali Khan decried Aleema&#39;s arrest, saying it was the first step toward worsening the situation. &quot;Our march will be peaceful and political. We do not want any confrontation or violence,&quot; he said.

Gohar called on the government to immediately stop such measures and release her. He added that the party would soon announce its course of action against such measures.

The TTAP also strongly condemned Aleema&#39;s detention, terming it an escalation of the ongoing crackdown on political workers and their families. In a statement, the TTAP said the detention created an atmosphere of fear among political workers and their families.

The statement further alleged that the Punjab government&#39;s actions against political workers aimed at disrupting political activity ahead of the September 27 protest.

&quot;The relentless crackdown on political workers in Punjab has now reached families. Aleema&#39;s detention under 3-MPO, with no charge and days before September 27, is repression at its peak. It will not break our resolve. Resisting it is our duty,&quot; said TTAP provincial leader Shayyan Bashir.

Senate Leader of Opposition Raja Nasir Abbas also condemned the move, calling the detention of Imran Khan&#39;s sister &quot;extremely regrettable and condemnable&quot;. He said peaceful political struggle and the right to expression could not be suppressed through arrests.

PTI Secretary General Salman Akram Raja and Khyber-Pakhtunkhwa Chief Minister Sohail Afridi also criticised the detention, with Raja alleging that political workers were being arrested across Punjab ahead of the September 27 protest.

Afridi described the detention as political victimisation and questioned the use of arrests against women in political disputes. PTI leader and a close aide to Imran, Zulfi Bukhari, described the arrest as &quot;absolutely despicable&quot; in a post on X, adding that &quot;the fear of the 27th protest is clearly taking its toll&quot;.

Meanwhile, the Human Rights Council of Pakistan also expressed concern over Aleema&#39;s detention.

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			<title>Residents decry unequal taxes</title>
			<link>https://tribune.com.pk/story/2630466/residents-decry-unequal-taxes</link>
			<comments>https://tribune.com.pk/story/2630466/residents-decry-unequal-taxes#comments</comments>
			<pubDate>Mon, 21 Sep 26 00:26:36 +0500</pubDate>
			<dc:creator>
				<![CDATA[Jamil Mirza]]>
			</dc:creator>
			<category><![CDATA[Punjab]]></category>
			<guid isPermaLink="false">https://tribune.com.pk/?p=2630466</guid>
			<description>
				<![CDATA[RCB, CCB taxpayers face water, sewerage &amp; streetlight issues despite revised taxes]]>
			</description>
			<content:encoded>
				<![CDATA[Residents of Rawalpindi and Chaklala cantonment boards have questioned different sanitation tax rates for residents in one city. The sanitation tax is higher in Rawalpindi Cantonment Board than in Chaklala Cantonment Board.

The Rawalpindi Cantonment Board has revised the heavy rates of water charges and property tax with minor relief. Residents continue to face problems related to drinking water, sanitation, streetlights, sewerage systems and damaged streets and roads.

According to residents, sanitation tax (conservancy charges) has surprisingly been imposed at different rates by the two cantonment boards. Chaklala Cantonment Board charges Rs1,200 annually from houses measuring one to three marlas, while the rate in Rawalpindi Cantonment Board was Rs2,500, which has now been reduced to Rs2,100 annually.

For houses measuring three to five marlas, the Chaklala Cantonment rate is Rs2,000, while the Rawalpindi rate was fixed at Rs3,600 and has now been reduced to Rs3,200. In Chaklala, the annual rate for five to seven marla houses is Rs2,592, compared with Rs4,800 in Rawalpindi, which has now been reduced to Rs4,400.

The annual rate for seven to 10 marla houses in Chaklala is Rs3,600, while Rawalpindi had imposed Rs5,400, reducing it to Rs5,200. Chaklala charges Rs4,800 annually for houses measuring 10 to 15 marlas, while Rawalpindi charges Rs7,000.

For houses measuring 15 to 20 marlas, Chaklala collects Rs6,000 annually compared with Rs10,000 in Rawalpindi. For 20 to 40 marla houses, the annual rate is Rs12,000 in Chaklala and Rs15,000 in Rawalpindi.

For houses measuring 40 marlas or more, Chaklala charges Rs14,000 annually, compared with Rs18,000 in Rawalpindi.

Meanwhile, residential water charges imposed by the Rawalpindi Cantonment Board are also a matter of concern.

For water supplied for 15 days a month, or every alternate day, annual water charges for one-to-five marla houses have been reduced from Rs14,400 to Rs12,200.

The charges for five-to-seven marla houses are Rs23,000, Rs33,500 for seven-to-10 marla houses, Rs44,000 for 10-to-15 marla houses, Rs45,000 for 15-to-20 marla houses, Rs62,000 for 20-to-40 marla houses and Rs72,000 annually for houses larger than 40 marlas.

The Rawalpindi Cantonment Board has also reduced residential property tax rates for Category-B houses.

The annual tax for one-to-five marla houses has been reduced from Rs14,400 to Rs10,800, while the rate for five-to-seven marla houses has been reduced from Rs20,400 to Rs18,800. For seven-to-10 marla houses, the new annual rate is Rs28,000 against Rs30,600 previously, while the rate for 10-to-15 marla houses has been reduced from Rs40,800 to Rs37,000.

The new rate for 15-to-20 marla houses is Rs40,000 against Rs43,200 previously, while the rate for 20-to-40 marla houses has been reduced from Rs56,100 to Rs52,000.

For houses larger than 40 marlas, the annual property tax has been reduced from Rs66,300 to Rs60,000.

The Rawalpindi Cantonment Board has also reduced the annual rental value increase for Category-C houses from 30 per cent to 20pc for 2026 to 2029.

Residents will have to pay sanitation tax, water charges and property tax according to the new rates. However, residents say they do not receive drinking water according to their needs and ground realities. Water is supplied every alternate day, meaning residents have to pay a full month&#39;s water charges for water supplied for only 15 days.

Except for posh cantonment areas, sanitation conditions in densely populated backyards are extremely poor.

Despite property tax, the condition of paved streets, functional sewerage systems and streetlights remains similar in densely populated backyard areas as well as posh localities. Potholes in roads and streets, dysfunctional sewerage systems and absence of streetlights have created severe difficulties for residents.

The tenure of the elections held in 2021 in Rawalpindi, Chaklala and other cantonment boards across the country ended in 2025. Residents are waiting to know when new elections will be held and when elected representatives will highlight public issues before the relevant authorities.

Several attempts were made to contact Rawalpindi Cantonment Board spokesman and Assistant Secretary Imran Habib for the board&#39;s opinion on the imposition of sanitation tax, water charges and property tax and the problems faced by residents, but he could not be reached.]]>
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			<title>Arsenic threat lurks in Multan water</title>
			<link>https://tribune.com.pk/story/2630503/arsenic-threat-lurks-in-multan-water</link>
			<comments>https://tribune.com.pk/story/2630503/arsenic-threat-lurks-in-multan-water#comments</comments>
			<pubDate>Mon, 21 Sep 26 02:24:56 +0500</pubDate>
			<dc:creator>
				<![CDATA[APP]]>
			</dc:creator>
			<category><![CDATA[Punjab]]></category>
			<guid isPermaLink="false">https://tribune.com.pk/?p=2630503</guid>
			<description>
				<![CDATA[Experts call for comprehensive scientific assessment]]>
			</description>
			<content:encoded>
				<![CDATA[Arsenic contamination has emerged as a serious water-quality concern in Multan, but its extent across the city remains unclear.

Water-testing experts have stressed the need for a comprehensive and representative survey to determine the current level of contamination and identify areas requiring intervention.

A water testing research officer, Saima Gul, said arsenic levels could not be generalised for the entire city on the basis of limited samples because contamination might vary according to location, source, groundwater depth and the period during which samples were collected and tested.

She said drinking water in the city was obtained from different sources, including WASA supplies, tube wells and hand pumps, household sources and commercial filtration plants. Therefore, proper assessment required systematic sampling from all major areas and different types of water sources rather than relying on results from limited locations.

Groundwater is widely used in parts of Multan and surrounding areas. Arsenic contamination may remain unnoticed because affected water does not necessarily show any obvious change in colour, taste or smell. Regular laboratory testing is, therefore, essential to determine whether a source is safe for consumption.

A published study examining drinking water in high schools in four tehsils of Multan found arsenic concentrations ranging from 3.25 to 184 micrograms per litre. It reported that 99 per cent of the tested samples exceeded the World Health Organisation (WHO) guideline of 10 micrograms.

Another study covering groundwater in five areas of Punjab, including Multan, found that 75% of 123 tested wells exceeded the WHO guideline, while 41% were above Pakistan&#39;s permissible limit of 50 micrograms per litre.

Samples were collected from hand pumps, electric pumps and tube wells at varying depths, showing differences in contamination.

The Pakistan Council of Research in Water Resources (PCRWR) has also reported arsenic contamination in groundwater in several areas, including Multan.

A national assessment covering 45,920 water sources found 13% above the WHO guideline and 3% above Pakistan&#39;s permissible limit of 50 micrograms.

The difference between the two standards is important.

The WHO considers inorganic arsenic a confirmed human carcinogen and says long-term exposure through drinking water and food can cause serious health effects, including skin lesions and cancers. It identifies contaminated groundwater as a major source of human exposure and recommends testing water sources and providing safe supplies or appropriate treatment where contamination is found.

In Muzaffargarh, around 20% of water samples examined during the past three years were reported to contain arsenic. A water testing management research officer for Layyah for Layyah and Muzaffargarh said the findings covered parts of the Muzaffargarh, Alipur and Jatoi tehsils.

In Layyah, arsenic was detected in up to 30% of drinking-water samples from different areas, with the maximum concentration reaching around 120 parts per billion. The affected sources included hand pumps and tube wells.

The experts called for regular testing, monitoring and purification of drinking-water sources, particularly in areas heavily dependent on groundwater.

The variation in findings from different locations and sources underlines the need for a systematic assessment.

A comprehensive city-wide survey covering WASA supplies, groundwater, tube wells, hand pumps, household sources and commercial filtration plants could provide a clearer picture of the situation.

This would help identify high-risk areas and determine where treatment or alternative safe water supplies are urgently required, they said.]]>
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			<title>LHC extends stay for Afghan medics</title>
			<link>https://tribune.com.pk/story/2630266/lhc-extends-stay-for-afghan-medics</link>
			<comments>https://tribune.com.pk/story/2630266/lhc-extends-stay-for-afghan-medics#comments</comments>
			<pubDate>Sat, 19 Sep 26 23:20:21 +0500</pubDate>
			<dc:creator>
				<![CDATA[Our Correspondent]]>
			</dc:creator>
			<category><![CDATA[Punjab]]></category>
			<guid isPermaLink="false">https://tribune.com.pk/?p=2630266</guid>
			<description>
				<![CDATA[LHC's Justice Khalid Ishaq had sought replies from the concerned respondents]]>
			</description>
			<content:encoded>
				<![CDATA[The LHC had continued the suspension of a PM&amp;DC directive requiring Afghan medical students to return to Afghanistan, after lawyers representing the council and a university sought additional time to file their respective replies.

In earlier proceedings, the LHC&#39;s Justice Khalid Ishaq had sought replies from the concerned respondents, including the PMDC, the health ministry and the vice chancellors of the medical varsities and colleges.

But the lawyers representing PM&amp;DC and the University of Health Sciences, appearing before the court sought more time to submit their written replies.]]>
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			<title>Punjab grocers reject 9pm shop closure under new austerity measures</title>
			<link>https://tribune.com.pk/story/2630044/punjab-grocers-reject-9pm-shop-closure-under-new-austerity-measures</link>
			<comments>https://tribune.com.pk/story/2630044/punjab-grocers-reject-9pm-shop-closure-under-new-austerity-measures#comments</comments>
			<pubDate>Fri, 18 Sep 26 11:31:37 +0500</pubDate>
			<dc:creator>
				<![CDATA[Qaiser Shirazi]]>
			</dc:creator>
			<category><![CDATA[Pakistan]]></category>
			<guid isPermaLink="false">https://tribune.com.pk/?p=2630044</guid>
			<description>
				<![CDATA[Association warns restrictions will hurt businesses, raise unemployment and undermine foreign exchange targets]]>
			</description>
			<content:encoded>
				<![CDATA[The All Punjab Grocers Association on Friday rejected the government&rsquo;s new austerity measures, saying grocery shops would not close at 9pm and warning that the restrictions would hurt businesses and increase unemployment.

The announcement came hours after the federal government reintroduced austerity and fuel conservation measures on Thursday and directed provincial governments to adopt similar steps. Punjab had previously maintained closing times of 9pm for shops, 10pm for marriage halls and 11pm for restaurants.

In a video message, APGA President Hafiz Arif Gujjar said, &ldquo;No country in the world closes food shops, even in wartime conditions.&rdquo; He said the association would not close grocery shops at 9pm and would resist the government&rsquo;s decision.&nbsp;&ldquo;The government&rsquo;s decision to close shops at 11pm was also harmful to businesses,&rdquo; he added.

Gujjar further said imposing a smart lockdown was &ldquo;tantamount to taking the country backwards&rdquo;, warning that the move would damage the business community and make it difficult to meet foreign exchange targets.

&ldquo;Millions of people will lose their jobs after the lockdown,&rdquo; he said, adding that the decision would increase unemployment. He urged the government to reconsider the decision and &ldquo;give businesses unrestricted operating hours&rdquo;.

Read: PM unveils austerity measures as Gulf conflict spirals

The measures came a day after the federal government reintroduced austerity and fuel conservation measures and asked provincial governments to consider adopting similar steps. The federal package included a 50 per cent cut in fuel allocations for official vehicles for three months, a 5 per cent reduction in the non-ERE budget and a three-month ban on official foreign travel.

Punjab had already retained restrictions on business timings, with shops, markets and shopping malls required to close by 9pm, marriage halls and marquees by 10pm, and restaurants and food outlets by 11pm.

The province had withdrawn several other austerity measures in June, while retaining the restrictions on business timings. The latest decision expanded the measures to include restrictions on official meetings and events, as well as further controls aimed at reducing government expenditure and conserving fuel.

Under the new measures, the provincial government also sought to reduce spending on official events by directing departments to prefer video conferencing for meetings and use government auditoriums and committee rooms where seminars, training programmes or conferences could not be avoided.

Background

The latest austerity measures come against the backdrop of a fuel conservation drive launched by the federal government earlier this year as international energy prices surged amid escalating tensions in the Middle East. The war between the United States, Iran and Israel sent global energy prices up.

In March, the government introduced a broad package of energy conservation and cost-cutting measures aimed at reducing fuel consumption and containing pressure on the economy that were later extended up to June.

The drive included a 50% reduction in fuel allocations for government vehicles, grounding 60% of the official fleet, restrictions on foreign travel and a ban on the purchase of vehicles and several categories of equipment. The government also announced reductions in official expenditure and changes to working arrangements in the public sector.

On June 10, the government extended several austerity measures until June 30 and revised the closing time for standalone grocery and neighbourhood stores.

Nine days later, the government announced a sharp reduction in domestic petroleum prices following an improvement in regional conditions and a decline in international oil prices. The prime minister said the federal government had used savings generated through austerity measures, alongside development budget allocations, to help provide relief to consumers.

Then on June 21, the government formally withdrew most of the austerity measures. Full petrol allowances for officials were restored, and up to 60% of the government vehicle fleet was allowed to return to operation. However, restrictions on the operating hours of markets, shopping malls, wedding halls and restaurants remained in place.

Read more: Austerity drive leaves NA with vehicle headache

The government&rsquo;s renewed austerity push now comes amid another sharp deterioration in the international fuel market. In a report published on September 15, The Express Tribune said the government was considering bringing back some of the earlier fuel conservation measures as renewed conflict and disruption to oil supply routes in the Middle East pushed up petroleum prices.

The renewed pressure coincided with a sharp increase in domestic petroleum prices.

Yesterday, the government, with the approval of the prime minister, also introduced a targeted fuel-relief scheme for motorcycles, rickshaws, Qingqi rickshaws and cars with engines of up to 800cc.]]>
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			<title>City cops to wear body cams</title>
			<link>https://tribune.com.pk/story/2629558/city-cops-to-wear-body-cams</link>
			<comments>https://tribune.com.pk/story/2629558/city-cops-to-wear-body-cams#comments</comments>
			<pubDate>Wed, 16 Sep 26 01:43:32 +0500</pubDate>
			<dc:creator>
				<![CDATA[Our Correspondent]]>
			</dc:creator>
			<category><![CDATA[Punjab]]></category>
			<guid isPermaLink="false">https://tribune.com.pk/?p=2629558</guid>
			<description>
				<![CDATA[Training completed, installation of docking points begins]]>
			</description>
			<content:encoded>
				<![CDATA[Training of the police field force for the use of body cameras across Punjab has been completed.

The project is being launched initially in Lahore, where installation of docking points for the cameras at police stations has begun.

The body-worn cameras will be connected with Smart Safe City systems established in 43 cities across the province. Punjab Police, Highway Patrol, Dolphin Force and traffic wardens will wear the cameras while performing their duties.

The digital facial recognition feature of the cameras will help identify suspects.

The state-of-the-art cameras will also facilitate automated reading of motorcycle and vehicle number plates, while an instant threat alert can be generated in an emergency.

The cameras are equipped with a calling facility for immediate communication.

Police personnel will be able to record audio and video and take photographs through the devices.

During duty, recordings will also be stored in the cameras&#39; built-in memory.

After completing their duty, the personnel will place the cameras at designated docking points.

The recorded data will then be automatically transferred from the cameras and securely stored.

A &#39;push-to-talk&#39; facility will enable field-duty officers to establish immediate contact with the control room, while an SOS emergency button will allow them to alert the control room in emergency situations. The cameras will be connected with a central monitoring system and live monitoring of the cameras will be carried out at the respective district Safe City control rooms.

Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz Sharif said the body-worn cameras would not only facilitate monitoring but also help curb corruption. &quot;Ensuring a sense of security among the public, particularly vulnerable segments, is the real measure of success,&quot; she said regarding the initiative.

She said protection of the life and property of every individual in Punjab was the foremost responsibility of the government.

In a message on the International Day of Democracy, the chief minister stated that an informed citizenry, honest leadership and rule of law were essential for the success of democracy.

She termed accountability a key pillar of democracy and reaffirmed the government&#39;s resolve to hold corrupt elements accountable.

She said a systematic campaign against corruption was under way in Punjab.

The CM said supremacy of the Constitution was the essence of democracy, while an active civil society and effective institutions were crucial for promoting and strengthening democratic traditions.

Meanwhile, Naseerabad police in Lahore arrested two men for impersonating officers of the force and intimidating citizens in Gopal Nagar&#39;s main market.

According to police, the suspects, Muhammad Asif and Abdul Majid, were wearing police caps with white shalwar kameez and allegedly presenting themselves as officials. When questioned, they failed to present proof of their identity or employment.

The police arrested them and registered a case under Sections 170 and 171 of the Pakistan Penal Code for impersonating police officials and illegally using official caps.]]>
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			<title>Malikpur blast probe stalls as families await justice</title>
			<link>https://tribune.com.pk/story/2629562/malikpur-blast-probe-stalls-as-families-await-justice</link>
			<comments>https://tribune.com.pk/story/2629562/malikpur-blast-probe-stalls-as-families-await-justice#comments</comments>
			<pubDate>Wed, 16 Sep 26 01:43:32 +0500</pubDate>
			<dc:creator>
				<![CDATA[Khawar Randhawa]]>
			</dc:creator>
			<category><![CDATA[Punjab]]></category>
			<guid isPermaLink="false">https://tribune.com.pk/?p=2629562</guid>
			<description>
				<![CDATA[10 months on, cause of tragedy, role of negligent departments remain unresolved]]>
			</description>
			<content:encoded>
				<![CDATA[As many as 10 months after a factory blast claimed the lives of 21 workers and residents of Malikpur, the divisional and district administrations have yet to make public the findings of a 10-member inquiry committee or fix responsibility for alleged negligence by relevant departments.

According to official sources, 21 people, including workers and residents living near the chemical factory, were killed in the incident.

The exact cause of the tragedy, whether it was triggered by a gas pipeline fire or a boiler explosion, has yet to be conclusively established.

The authorities had formed a 10-member inquiry committee to determine the circumstances surrounding the incident and identify any lapses by the departments responsible for monitoring industrial safety.

However, the findings of the inquiry have not been made public, nor has responsibility been fixed for any alleged negligence.

Following the incident, the administration arranged the reconstruction of affected houses through a prominent textile exporter.

Compensation cheques were also distributed among the bereaved families, reportedly by the factory owner.

Meanwhile, on the directives of Punjab Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz Sharif, a comprehensive inspection of industrial units across Faisalabad Division was ordered to reassess the capacity and safety of boilers and pressure vessels installed in factories.

During the inspection, officials were also directed to verify the geotagging and locations of industrial units and check the availability of the required no-objection certificates (NOCs).

Four private companies were assigned 90 days to complete the inspection and submit detailed reports on the condition and capacity of boilers and pressure vessels installed at industrial units across the division.

As per the official estimates, more than 1,200 boilers and over 6,000 pressure vessels are installed in industrial units in Faisalabad Division.

Officials said assessing the condition and capacity of the equipment was essential as outdated, defective or improperly maintained boilers and pressure vessels could pose serious safety risks and potentially cause explosions resulting in loss of life.

However, despite the inspection exercise, questions remain over the findings of the inquiry into the Malikpur tragedy and whether any action has been taken against departments or officials responsible for ensuring industrial safety.

The families of the victims are still awaiting clarity over the circumstances that led to the deaths of their loved ones and accountability for any negligence that may have contributed to the incident.

In November, 2025, the deadly blast at the chemical factory located in Malikpur residential neighbourhood triggered a fire causing the deaths of at least 21 people and injuries to seven others. That explosive material was stored within the factory housed amid residential units left, right and centre speaks of the criminal apathy of the factory owners and the patronage of the relevant authorities enjoyed by them.

Faisalabad has recorded 20 boiler explosions or major fire incidents between June 2019 and May 2024, killing 13 workers and injuring 20 others, according to Rescue 1122 data. These incidents include those that happened in residential localities.]]>
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			<title>Wastewater pumps' procurement okayed</title>
			<link>https://tribune.com.pk/story/2629559/wastewater-pumps-procurement-okayed</link>
			<comments>https://tribune.com.pk/story/2629559/wastewater-pumps-procurement-okayed#comments</comments>
			<pubDate>Wed, 16 Sep 26 01:43:32 +0500</pubDate>
			<dc:creator>
				<![CDATA[APP]]>
			</dc:creator>
			<category><![CDATA[Punjab]]></category>
			<guid isPermaLink="false">https://tribune.com.pk/?p=2629559</guid>
			<description>
				<![CDATA[WASA administration stated that new wastewater pumps would be installed at various disposal stations to improve system]]>
			</description>
			<content:encoded>
				<![CDATA[The Lahore Divisional Development Working Committee (DDWC) chaired by Commissioner Noman Yousaf on Tuesday approved 17 development schemes of the Water and Sanitation Agency (WASA),

Metropolitan Corporation Lahore (MCL) and Board of Revenue.

The schemes included seven proposals by WASA for procurement of wastewater pumps for disposal stations in different towns of and eight MCL schemes for rehabilitation of neighbourhood roads.

The WASA administration stated that new wastewater pumps would be installed at various disposal stations to improve the system.

The deputy and assistant commissioners of the four districts of the division briefed the committee on development schemes of the Board of Revenue.

The committee reviewed all the schemes in detail before approving them.

The commissioner directed the officers concerned to complete development work in every tehsil according to prescribed timelines while ensuring quality standards.]]>
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			<title>Six injured in stray dog attacks</title>
			<link>https://tribune.com.pk/story/2629987/six-injured-in-stray-dog-attacks</link>
			<comments>https://tribune.com.pk/story/2629987/six-injured-in-stray-dog-attacks#comments</comments>
			<pubDate>Fri, 18 Sep 26 02:09:56 +0500</pubDate>
			<dc:creator>
				<![CDATA[Our Correspondent]]>
			</dc:creator>
			<category><![CDATA[Punjab]]></category>
			<guid isPermaLink="false">https://tribune.com.pk/?p=2629987</guid>
			<description>
				<![CDATA[Doctors says affected patients were being provided necessary medical care and treatment according to their condition]]>
			</description>
			<content:encoded>
				<![CDATA[Six people and several cattle were reportedly injured in stray dog attacks in areas around Sarai Mughal on Thursday.

Residents said packs of stray dogs could be seen roaming streets, roads, fields and populated areas, particularly during the morning and evening hours. They said the presence of packs had made it difficult for children, women and elderly people to move around safely.

Doctors said the affected patients were being provided necessary medical care and treatment according to their condition.

Residents claimed that the number of stray dogs had increased in Sarai Mughal and surrounding settlements.

The residents said children returning from school and people leaving their homes for routine activities were particularly vulnerable to attacks by packs of dogs. Families of those injured said they had been forced to take additional precautions when travelling through affected areas.]]>
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			<title>Crackdown on rice residue burning</title>
			<link>https://tribune.com.pk/story/2629563/crackdown-on-rice-residue-burning</link>
			<comments>https://tribune.com.pk/story/2629563/crackdown-on-rice-residue-burning#comments</comments>
			<pubDate>Wed, 16 Sep 26 01:43:32 +0500</pubDate>
			<dc:creator>
				<![CDATA[APP]]>
			</dc:creator>
			<category><![CDATA[Punjab]]></category>
			<guid isPermaLink="false">https://tribune.com.pk/?p=2629563</guid>
			<description>
				<![CDATA[Meeting reviewed measures to prevent smog, air pollution and burning of rice crop residue]]>
			</description>
			<content:encoded>
				<![CDATA[Commissioner Ashfaq Ahmed Chaudhry has directed the relevant depart-ments to enforce a ban on burning rice crop residue and take legal action against violators as part of measures to prevent smog and pollution.

According to a spokesperson here on Tuesday, the commissioner issued the directions while chairing a meeting held to review measures for prevention of smog.

The meeting reviewed measures to prevent smog, air pollution and burning of rice crop residue. Agriculture Director Mehr Abid Hussain gave a briefing on steps being tak-en to curb smog and educate farmers about the harmful effects of burning residue.

Chaudhry said rice harvesting had started in the division and burning crop residue during the process could contribute to air pollution and smog.

He directed the concerned departments to educate farmers about the harmful effects of burning rice residue.]]>
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			<title>Child abuse suspect killed</title>
			<link>https://tribune.com.pk/story/2629564/child-abuse-suspect-killed</link>
			<comments>https://tribune.com.pk/story/2629564/child-abuse-suspect-killed#comments</comments>
			<pubDate>Wed, 16 Sep 26 01:43:32 +0500</pubDate>
			<dc:creator>
				<![CDATA[Our Correspondent]]>
			</dc:creator>
			<category><![CDATA[Punjab]]></category>
			<guid isPermaLink="false">https://tribune.com.pk/?p=2629564</guid>
			<description>
				<![CDATA[Suspect had been providing pick-and-drop services to the girl for some time]]>
			</description>
			<content:encoded>
				<![CDATA[A rickshaw driver wanted in a case in-volving the alleged repeated sexual assault of an eight-year-old girl with special needs was killed in an exchange of fire with his alleged accomplice in Gujranwala, police said on Tuesday.

The incident took place in the jurisdiction of Sadar Gujranwala police station. The City Police Officer (CPO) has sought a report of the incident.

The suspect had been providing pick-and-drop services to the girl for some time.]]>
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			</item><item>
			<title>Two injured in encounters</title>
			<link>https://tribune.com.pk/story/2629369/two-injured-in-encounters</link>
			<comments>https://tribune.com.pk/story/2629369/two-injured-in-encounters#comments</comments>
			<pubDate>Tue, 15 Sep 26 02:41:11 +0500</pubDate>
			<dc:creator>
				<![CDATA[Our Correspondent]]>
			</dc:creator>
			<category><![CDATA[Punjab]]></category>
			<guid isPermaLink="false">https://tribune.com.pk/?p=2629369</guid>
			<description>
				<![CDATA[Police said Khalid was facing cases of robbery and other offences]]>
			</description>
			<content:encoded>
				<![CDATA[Two men were injured and arrested during alleged police encounters in the city, while their accomplices escaped.

In the Sunder area, police signalled two motorcyclists to stop at a checkpoint, but they allegedly opened fire on and attempted to flee.

The police chased the men, during which one of them, Khalid Younis, was injured allegedly by firing from his accomplice.

The injured man was arrested and shifted to a hospital for treatment. Police said Khalid was facing cases of robbery and other offences.

In another incident, Raiwind police intercepted three suspected armed robbers near Lakhowal.The police said the suspects were signalled to stop at a checkpoint but they opened fire and attempted to escape.

During retaliatory firing, suspect Irfan was injured allegedly by bullets fired by his accomplices and was arrested.

The police said he had suffered gunshot wounds to his ear and leg and had been shifted to a hospital.]]>
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			</item><item>
			<title>'Robber' shot dead</title>
			<link>https://tribune.com.pk/story/2628834/robber-shot-dead</link>
			<comments>https://tribune.com.pk/story/2628834/robber-shot-dead#comments</comments>
			<pubDate>Fri, 11 Sep 26 20:26:20 +0500</pubDate>
			<dc:creator>
				<![CDATA[Our Correspondent]]>
			</dc:creator>
			<category><![CDATA[Punjab]]></category>
			<guid isPermaLink="false">https://tribune.com.pk/?p=2628834</guid>
			<description>
				<![CDATA[Police said CCD teams had set up a checkpoint near Damr Flour Mills to arrest proclaimed offenders]]>
			</description>
			<content:encoded>
				<![CDATA[A robber wanted in more than 40 robbery and street crime cases was killed in an alleged encounter with the Crime Control Department (CCD) on Narwala Bypass, while his accomplices escaped.

Police said CCD teams had set up a checkpoint near Damr Flour Mills to arrest proclaimed offenders. The suspects opened fire when signalled to stop, triggering an exchange of fire during the chase.

Noman alias Nomi Machhi was injured allegedly by firing from his accomplices and later died at a hospital. Police shifted his body to Allied Hospital for post-mortem.]]>
			</content:encoded>
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			</item><item>
			<title>Suspected robber allegedly shot by accomplices</title>
			<link>https://tribune.com.pk/story/2628061/suspected-robber-allegedly-shot-by-accomplices</link>
			<comments>https://tribune.com.pk/story/2628061/suspected-robber-allegedly-shot-by-accomplices#comments</comments>
			<pubDate>Tue, 08 Sep 26 03:32:41 +0500</pubDate>
			<dc:creator>
				<![CDATA[Our Correspondent]]>
			</dc:creator>
			<category><![CDATA[Punjab]]></category>
			<guid isPermaLink="false">https://tribune.com.pk/?p=2628061</guid>
			<description>
				<![CDATA[His two accomplices managed to escape]]>
			</description>
			<content:encoded>
				<![CDATA[A suspected robber was arrested after allegedly being hit by firing from his accomplices during an exchange of fire with police in Kahna.

His two accomplices managed to escape.

The incident occurred near Kankar Road when a police team conducting snap checking signalled three suspicious men to stop. Instead, the men allegedly opened fire on the police, prompting retaliatory firing.

During the exchange, one of the suspects, Usman, was wounded after allegedly being struck by bullets fired by his accomplices.

The police shifted the injured suspect to a hospital for treatment and launched a search for his fleeing accomplices. The police claimed that Usman was a habitual offender with more than 50 cases registered against him.]]>
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				    <img src="https://i.tribune.com.pk/media/images/shot-dead1777064024-3/shot-dead1777064024-3.jpg" class="featured_image"/>
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			<title>Field workshop on modern mango pruning held</title>
			<link>https://tribune.com.pk/story/2628063/field-workshop-on-modern-mango-pruning-held</link>
			<comments>https://tribune.com.pk/story/2628063/field-workshop-on-modern-mango-pruning-held#comments</comments>
			<pubDate>Tue, 08 Sep 26 03:32:41 +0500</pubDate>
			<dc:creator>
				<![CDATA[APP]]>
			</dc:creator>
			<category><![CDATA[Punjab]]></category>
			<guid isPermaLink="false">https://tribune.com.pk/?p=2628063</guid>
			<description>
				<![CDATA[PHDEC experts will demonstrate precise pruning methods, including the appropriate timing and location of cuts]]>
			</description>
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				<![CDATA[Horticulture Development and Export Company (PHDEC) will organise a field demonstration and training workshop on modern mango pruning and production practices at Lutfabad Mango Farms on September 9.

The workshop, scheduled to begin at 9am, aims to provide mango growers and orchard managers with practical training in mechanical and judicious pruning techniques to improve canopy management, sunlight penetration, air circulation and overall orchard efficiency.

PHDEC experts will demonstrate precise pruning methods, including the appropriate timing and location of cuts.]]>
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				    <img src="https://i.tribune.com.pk/media/images/mango2-1557977595-e1557977630428/mango2-1557977595-e1557977630428.jpg" class="featured_image"/>
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			<title>Two shot dead in CCD 'encounters'</title>
			<link>https://tribune.com.pk/story/2627710/two-shot-dead-in-ccd-encounters</link>
			<comments>https://tribune.com.pk/story/2627710/two-shot-dead-in-ccd-encounters#comments</comments>
			<pubDate>Sun, 06 Sep 26 01:25:25 +0500</pubDate>
			<dc:creator>
				<![CDATA[Our Correspondent]]>
			</dc:creator>
			<category><![CDATA[Punjab]]></category>
			<guid isPermaLink="false">https://tribune.com.pk/?p=2627710</guid>
			<description>
				<![CDATA[During an exchange of fire, 56-year-old Amir, a resident of Khanewal, was injured allegedly by firing]]>
			</description>
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				<![CDATA[Two suspected robbers with criminal record were killed in police encounters, while their four accomplices escaped.

Peoples Colony police stopped two suspected robbers near Jhal Bridge but they opened fire and fled towards the Railway Ground.

During an exchange of fire, 56-year-old Amir, a resident of Khanewal, was injured allegedly by firing from his accomplices and later died at Civil Hospital.

The police said Amir had been wanted in dozens of cases of robbery, motorcycle theft and other crimes in Faisalabad and other districts.

He had also allegedly used fake identity cards under different names to conceal his identity.

In another incident, CCD personnel intercepted three suspected robbers near Kaniyan Bangla.

The police said the suspects opened fire, triggering an exchange of fire in which Shahbaz, a resident of Sahiwal and a suspect in at least 16 cases of robbery snd resisting arrest, was critically injured by bullets fired by his accomplices, the police claimed.

He later died in a hospital. The oolice shifted both bodies for medico-legal procedures and launched investigations.]]>
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			<title>Street vendor allegedly tortured, humiliated</title>
			<link>https://tribune.com.pk/story/2628456/street-vendor-allegedly-tortured-humiliated</link>
			<comments>https://tribune.com.pk/story/2628456/street-vendor-allegedly-tortured-humiliated#comments</comments>
			<pubDate>Thu, 10 Sep 26 01:18:59 +0500</pubDate>
			<dc:creator>
				<![CDATA[Our Correspondent]]>
			</dc:creator>
			<category><![CDATA[Punjab]]></category>
			<guid isPermaLink="false">https://tribune.com.pk/?p=2628456</guid>
			<description>
				<![CDATA[Victim says suspects accused him of harassing a girl, subjected him to physical violence, took him to a nearby dera]]>
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				<![CDATA[A street vendor was allegedly subjected to physical torture and public humiliation in Hasan Town after some associates of influential local residents accused him of standing in a street, police and family members said.

According to the victim, Gulfam, he was riding his bicycle through Hasan Town as part of his routine work when some men stopped him and told him not to stand in the street.

He alleged that the suspects accused him of harassing a girl, subjected him to physical violence and took him to a nearby dera.

Gulfam alleged that the men shaved his head, eyebrows and moustache, put a garland of shoes around his neck, blackened his face and forced him to ride a donkey while parading him through the locality.

They also allegedly recorded the incident and uploaded the video on social media, where it later went viral.

The incident came to light after the video circulated widely on social media. Taking notice of the footage, District Police Officer (DPO) Hafizabad Fawad Ahmed directed police to arrest those allegedly involved.

City Hafizabad Police subsequently arrested two nominated suspects, identified as Babar and Ali.

A case was also registered on the complaint of the victim&#39;s brother, Khurram.

The victim&#39;s mother, Iqbal Bibi, and his brother said the family was poor and had struggled to have their complaint heard.

They appealed to the authorities to provide Gulfam with justice.]]>
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				    <img src="https://i.tribune.com.pk/media/images/34420-torture-1462869767/34420-torture-1462869767.jpg" class="featured_image"/>
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