Author: Syed Tauqeer Zaidi

By Syed Tauqeer Zaidi PESHAWAR: Khyber Pakhtunkhwa Chief Minister Sohail Afridi has vowed that the province will not compromise on law and order in its drive to attract and protect investment, as the region moves toward energy self-sufficiency and new sources of revenue. Speaking at an event in Peshawar, Afridi highlighted that oil and gas discoveries would boost employment, business, and industry, stressing that local communities would have primary rights over natural resources and that all decisions would prioritize their interests. The chief minister said the provincial government is taking an unconventional approach to energy projects and will fully support…

By Syed Tauqeer Zaidi DERA ISMAIL KHAN: SP City Division Ali Hamza conducted a comprehensive security audit of the Judicial Complex in Dera Ismail Khan on Tuesday. During the visit, he inspected entry and exit points, walkthrough gates, CCTV systems, security checkpoints, and the performance of on-duty personnel. The SP expressed satisfaction with the existing arrangements while issuing instructions to strengthen security further. He directed officials to remain vigilant, monitor any suspicious activity closely, and ensure a safe environment for visitors and staff. The district police reiterated that they were fully prepared to respond to any emergency and emphasized that…

By Syed Tauqeer Zaidi Dera Ismail Khan: Pakistan Peoples Party (PPP) leader and former tehsil member Malik Asif Iqbal Lothani died on Friday from injuries sustained in a terror attack on 3 December in Daraban. His driver was killed on the spot during the assault. According to officials, attackers stormed the guest area of Lothani’s home and opened indiscriminate fire, critically wounding both Lothani and his driver. Lothani was rushed to hospital, where he remained under treatment for two days before succumbing to his injuries. Funeral prayers were offered at Karkhana Mor, attended by political leaders, local dignitaries, party workers,…

By Syed Tauqeer Zaidi DERA ISMAIL KHAN: An inquiry by the Information Department into the registration process of the Parova Press Club uncovered significant discrepancies, revealing that several individuals had falsely claimed affiliation with national and local newspapers in an attempt to present themselves as journalists. According to the Regional Information Officer’s office, the scrutiny of registration applications showed that multiple applicants asserted links with various media houses. However, when the inquiry team contacted these outlets for verification, the organizations categorically denied any association with the individuals in question. The investigation was led by Regional Information Officer Sanaullah Khan, who…

By Syed Tauqeer Zaidi KARAK: Khushal Khan Khattak University in Karak hosted a seminar examining the National Finance Commission (NFC) share and the financial challenges confronting the Khyber Pakhtunkhwa government. The event brought together students, faculty members, and civil society representatives for an in-depth discussion on provincial fiscal issues. Vice Chancellor Professor Dr. Muhammad Tahir Khalily, attending as chief guest, highlighted the importance of understanding Pakistan’s financial frameworks to ensure equitable development. Speakers Dr. Wajid Mehmood and Dr. Umer Riaz Khattak presented research-based insights into KP’s fiscal rights, the economic implications of the tribal districts’ merger, and the principles underpinning…

By Syed Tauqeer Zaidi DERA ISMAIL KHAN: The Fatimid Foundation Hospital Center in Dera Ismail Khan has launched a dedicated blood transfusion program providing screened and safe blood for patients with thalassemia and hemophilia, marking a significant step toward improving care for individuals with blood disorders in the region. In the initiative’s initial phase, five patients from Dera Ismail Khan and Punjab received screened blood, signaling the start of what hospital officials described as a life-saving effort. Renowned paediatric specialist Professor Dr. Amin Jan Khan, head of the Pediatrics Department at Pak International Medical College, Peshawar, personally oversaw the transfusions…

By Syed Tauqeer Zaidi LAKKI MARWAT: A police head constable was killed and six others, including the Station House Officer (SHO), were injured in a suicide attack on a police mobile van near Katokhel Adda on Monday, officials said. According to police, the van was on routine patrol in the jurisdiction of Tajori Police Station when two attackers approached. One detonated an explosive close to the vehicle, killing Head Constable Alauddin and wounding six others, including the SHO, while the second attacker fled the scene. Security forces arrived promptly, transporting the fallen officer and injured personnel to a nearby hospital.…

By Syed Tauqeer Zaidi DERA ISMAIL KHAN: In a significant move to improve basic facilities in government schools, the CARE Foundation installed 20 water hand pumps in primary boys’ schools across Dera Ismail Khan, officials said. Approval has also been granted for an additional 42 pumps, including solar-powered units, aimed at providing uninterrupted access to clean drinking water for thousands of students. The initiative was formally launched at Government Primary School Chaa Bara, where Sub-Divisional Education Officer (Male) Dr Humayun Khattak inaugurated the project. Head Teacher Ikram, teachers, local notables, and students attended the ceremony, offering prayers for the progress…

By Syed Tauqeer Zaidi DERA ISMAIL KHAN: A harrowing incident unfolded in the Basti Darkhanwali area on Monday, where a woman allegedly killed her two young children with a knife, police reported. The victims, a 40-day-old infant boy named Suhail and a two-year-old girl, Iqra Bibi, were reportedly killed by their mother, the wife of Sanaullah Yousafzai. Authorities said the motive behind the killings remains under investigation. The children’s bodies were taken to the Trauma Centre of the Civil Hospital for medico-legal formalities. Police responded swiftly to the scene and arrested the mother, who is reported to be of Afghan…

By Syed Tauqeer Zaidi DERA ISMAIL KHAN: Security forces killed six militants associated with the group locally known as Fitna Al-Khawarij during an intelligence-led operation in Kulachi Tehsil, officials confirmed on Monday. The operation was launched following credible intelligence about the militants’ presence in the area. In the ensuing exchange of fire, six militants were neutralized, and several others were reportedly injured. Authorities swiftly cordoned off the area and conducted a comprehensive search to apprehend any militants attempting to flee. Security officials said the operation forms part of ongoing efforts to dismantle terrorist networks and restore lasting peace in the…