Islamabad, In a significant diplomatic engagement, the Ambassador of Russia to Pakistan, H.E. Mr. Albert Khorev, met with his Iraqi counterpart, H.E. Mr. Hamed Abbas Lafta Al-Armashawi, on February 27, 2024. The meeting focused on exploring a range of important issues that hold mutual interest for both nations.
According to Embassy of The Russian Federation, the discussions aimed at enhancing cooperation and understanding between Russia and Iraq, particularly in areas pertinent to their diplomatic presence and interests in Pakistan. While specific details of the topics covered during the meeting were not disclosed, the engagement underscores the ongoing efforts by both countries to deepen their diplomatic ties and collaborate on issues of shared concern.
Islamabad, In a significant crackdown on drug trafficking within the city, the Islamabad Capital Police have arrested 16 members of a drug peddler gang, seizing a large quantity of narcotics. This operation underscores the police force’s intensified efforts to combat drug-related crimes and safeguard the community, especially the youth, from the perils of substance abuse.
According to Islamabad Capital Police, the arrests and drug seizures were part of a concerted campaign led by Islamabad Capital City Police Officer (ICCPO) Dr. Akbar Nasir Khan to eradicate criminal elements from the city. The operation saw the recovery of 8,182 grams of heroin, 2,870 grams of hashish, 20 liters of liquor, and 110 grams of Ice, highlighting the extensive nature of the drug peddling activities being targeted.
The successful operation involved teams from various police stations across Islamabad, including Kohsar, Margalla, Shalimar, Golra, Sumbal, Tarnol, Sangjani, Industrial Area, Sabzi Mandi, Khanna, Kirpa, Lohi Bher, Nilore, and Bani Gala. Each team played a crucial role in the apprehension of the accused and the confiscation of the narcotics, demonstrating a coordinated effort across the police force.
Dr. Akbar Nasir Khan has commended the efforts of all officers involved and has issued directives for continued and rigorous actions against individuals involved in drug peddling. The ICCPO’s stance is clear: the Islamabad Capital Police are committed to curbing the drug menace and ensuring the safety and well-being of the city’s residents, with a particular focus on protecting the youth from falling victim to drug addiction.
Cases have been registered against the arrested individuals, and further investigations are ongoing to dismantle the network of drug peddlers operating in the capital.
Islamabad, A significant weather system is poised to bring torrential rainfall, heavy snowfall, and windstorms across most parts of Pakistan from February 29 to March 02. The National Weather Forecasting Centre in Islamabad has issued a severe weather alert, anticipating widespread impact including flash floods and disruptions to daily life in vulnerable areas.
According to National Weather Forecasting Centre – Islamabad, a strong westerly wave is expected to hit the western parts of the country on February 29 and extend its influence across most regions by March 01, persisting until March 02. This weather pattern is forecasted to cause heavy to extremely heavy rain, accompanied by windstorms and thunderstorms, across several provinces including Balochistan, Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, Gilgit Baltistan, Kashmir, Punjab, Islamabad, and Sindh.
In Balochistan, cities such as Nokkundi, Dalbandin, and Quetta are among those expected to experience widespread heavy rainfall and snowfall over the hills. Khyber Pakhtunkhwa could see extreme weather conditions affecting Chitral, Peshawar, and Dera Ismail Khan, among others. Gilgit Baltistan and Kashmir are also bracing for heavy to extremely heavy rain and snowfall, impacting areas like Skardu and Muzaffarabad.
Punjab and Islamabad are forecasted to receive widespread heavy rain, particularly affecting Murree and the Galliyat, with significant snowfall expected. Sindh is not spared, with rain and thunderstorms predicted for Karachi, Hyderabad, and surrounding areas.
The potential impacts of this severe weather include flash flooding in local nullahs of Gwadar, Turbat, and other areas in Balochistan, as well as in hill torrents of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, Kashmir, and the Islamabad/Rawalpindi region. Road closures due to heavy snowfall may occur in Murree, Galiyat, Naran, Kaghan, and other high-altitude areas, while landslides are a risk in upper Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, Murree, Galiyat, Kashmir, and Gilgit Baltistan.
Authorities have issued warnings about the possibility of damage to loose structures such as electric poles and solar panels due to wind-thunderstorms and hailstorms. Tourists are advised to avoid unnecessary travel, and farmers are cautioned to protect their crops during this period.
Residents and visitors in the affected areas are urged to stay informed and take necessary precautions to ensure safety during this severe weather event.
Lahore, The Punjab Police has dedicated more than 5 crore 08 lakh rupees to the health welfare of its force and their families this year, under the guidance of Inspector General Police Punjab, Dr. Usman Anwar. This initiative is part of a comprehensive effort to prioritize the health and well-being of police personnel and their dependents, with significant financial resources allocated to support various medical needs.
According to Punjab Police, the welfare measures have included financial assistance for 670 officers and personnel across different districts, including Lahore. The funding has facilitated critical medical interventions such as cochlear implant surgeries for hearing-impaired children of employees, as well as treatment for children affected by thalassemia and cerebral palsy. Furthermore, Dr. Usman Anwar emphasized the department’s commitment to the swift rehabilitation of officers and officials injured in the line of duty, ensuring they receive timely and effective care.
The IG Punjab also highlighted the launch of 41 new projects aimed at enhancing police welfare, signifying a long-term strategy to intensify health welfare measures for employees and their families. This investment not only underscores the department’s dedication to its personnel’s health but also sets a precedent for the integration of welfare initiatives within the force’s operational framework.
The Punjab Police’s focus on health welfare reflects a holistic approach to personnel management, recognizing the importance of supporting the physical and mental well-being of those who serve and protect the community.